Read the GOLF Tour Confidential for the unfiltered opinions of our writers and editors as they break down the hottest topics in the sport. This week, with the PGA Championship at Aronimink, we’ll touch on a key topic each night.
There is only one round left in 2026 The PGA Championshipand through 54 holes Aronimink has produced what could be one of the most open major Sundays we’ve seen in years. Alex Smalley, who is making his fifth major start and is winless on Tour, leads at six under while five players – Matti Schmid, Nick Taylor, Jon Rahm, Aaron Rai and Ludvig Aberg – are two back at four under. Rory McIlroy and Xander Schauffele are just three off the lead, and 21 players are all within four strokes of Smalley. Who wins on Sunday?
Zephyr Melton, Associate Game Improvement Editor (@zephyrmelton): Alex Smalley is a nice Saturday night story, but with the number of big names in the running for the final round, I’ll be surprised if he continues. As for who that big name will be, give me Jon Rahm. After his embarrassment at Augusta last month, he appears to have come to Aronimink with something to prove. Nothing would shut up the haters better than hoisting the Wanamaker Trophy on Sunday night.
Josh Berhow, managing editor (@Josh_Berhow): Sorry Alex Smalley, I think there are just too many contenders here and he should still be in this situation. I think Jon Rahm breaks out of the pack, wins his third career Grand Slam, and adds another interesting wrinkle to the whole LIV drama.
Josh Schrock, news editor (@schrock_and_awe): Everything tells me that Jon Rahm wins. But nothing about this big has been as expected. Just look at this leaderboard! I think Smalley leaves proceedings early and we end up seeing someone from the group of Rahm, Ludvig, Rory and Xander make the right moves late on 16, 17 and 18. I’ll take Xander to beat Rahm and Rory by one, but I’m keeping a close eye on the possibility that Scottie Scheffler comes out early and posts an early 65.
Josh Sens, senior writer (@joshsens): This is the heart speaking more than the head, but Justin Rose is within striking distance, far enough away that he is not burdened with the pressure of expectations, just the opportunity to post an early score like he did at the Masters last year. Maybe his playoff against Rory ends differently at Aronimink than it did at Augusta.
