PGA Championship: Upsets And Surprises On Day One

Mei Lin

4 min read

Post on May 17, 2025

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Major Upsets that Rocked the Leaderboard

The PGA Championship leaderboard experienced a seismic shift on Day One, with several established players suffering unexpected defeats. These upsets completely reshaped the tournament landscape and injected a thrilling level of unpredictability into the competition.

• Player: Keegan Bradley

• Upset of: Rory McIlroy

• Key Statistics: Bradley shot a 6-under 64, while McIlroy carded a disappointing 72 (+2). This 8-shot difference was a stunning turnaround given McIlroy's pre-tournament status as a favorite.

• Analysis: Bradley's exceptional putting and consistent approach shots proved too much for McIlroy to handle. McIlroy, on the other hand, struggled with accuracy off the tee, leading to several bogeys that ultimately derailed his round.

• Player: Cameron Young

• Upset of: Jon Rahm

• Key Statistics: Young's 66 (-4) compared to Rahm's 70 (+2) demonstrated a significant upset. The difference in scores highlights the unexpected nature of Young's strong performance.

• Analysis: Young's aggressive style of play paid off, while Rahm's usually reliable game faltered, perhaps due to the pressure of being a top contender.

• Player: Viktor Hovland

• Upset of: Collin Morikawa

• Key Statistics: Hovland's 65 (-5) put him in contention early, while Morikawa struggled to a 73 (+3). This showcases Hovland's ability to capitalize on opportunities while demonstrating Morikawa's vulnerability.

• Analysis: Hovland's masterful iron play and calm demeanor proved crucial, allowing him to navigate the challenging course with finesse. Morikawa, known for his precision, appeared to be battling his swing throughout the round.

Surprising Performances from Under-the-Radar Players

Beyond the major upsets, several under-the-radar players delivered breakout performances on Day One, solidifying their presence in the tournament and surprising many golf analysts. These dark horse contenders significantly exceeded expectations, making the PGA Championship even more unpredictable.

• Player: Sahith Theegala

• Pre-Tournament Expectation: Outside the top contenders

• Day One Performance: A solid 67 (-3) placed him near the top of the leaderboard, indicating a strong start. He showcased exceptional ball-striking.

• Analysis: Theegala’s performance showcases his improved consistency and growing confidence.

• Implications: Theegala's strong opening round suggests he will be a player to watch closely in subsequent rounds.

• Player: Tom Kim

• Pre-Tournament Expectation: A rising star but not a top favorite

• Day One Performance: A spectacular 66 (-4) highlighting his accuracy and aggressive putting.

• Analysis: Kim’s performance reflects his ability to handle pressure and play aggressively.

• Implications: Kim’s impressive start places him in contention early in the tournament.

• Player: Lucas Herbert

• Pre-Tournament Expectation: Not a pre-tournament favorite.

• Day One Performance: A 68 (-2) displaying remarkable resilience and precision.

• Analysis: Herbert's consistent play and his strategic shot-making were impressive.

• Implications: Herbert’s strong performance positions him well for the following days.

Analysis of Key Factors Contributing to the Day's Surprises

Several factors contributed to the unexpected results witnessed on Day One of the PGA Championship. Analyzing these elements provides insight into the unpredictable nature of competitive golf.

• Course Conditions: The course presented a significant challenge, with strong winds and challenging pin placements. This impacted even the most experienced players.
• Player Form: Some players appeared to be out of form, struggling with their usual accuracy and consistency. The pressure of the major championship may have played a role.
• Unexpected Withdrawals: No significant injuries or withdrawals were reported on Day One; however, unforeseen circumstances could always impact the following rounds.
• Impact of Weather Conditions: The wind played a key role in determining scores; players who adapted better to the challenging conditions excelled.

Conclusion: PGA Championship Recap and Day One Takeaways

Day One of the PGA Championship delivered a series of unexpected results, showcasing the unpredictable nature of top-level golf. Major upsets shook the leaderboard, and several under-the-radar players emerged as significant contenders. Factors such as challenging course conditions and fluctuations in player form contributed to the day’s surprising outcomes. The tournament remains wide open, with several players now in contention. Who will emerge victorious? Stay tuned for more PGA Championship action and continued coverage of the unexpected twists and turns as the tournament unfolds! Don't miss out on the thrilling conclusion – check back tomorrow for more updates on the latest upsets and surprises!