The 2024 PGA Championship at Valhalla delivered a Sunday of high drama and heartbreak, particularly for two of golf's most celebrated figures. Tommy Fleetwood, who had positioned himself for a thrilling charge, saw his hopes for a first major title evaporate in a crushing finale.
Beginning the day six shots behind leader Xander Schauffele, the Englishman needed a fast start. He delivered exactly that, electrifying the Kentucky crowds with three birdies in his opening seven holes. This blistering run propelled him to within striking distance of the lead, igniting belief that a historic comeback was on the cards.
A Costly Triple-Bogey Derails the Dream
The challenge unravelled catastrophically on the par-4 6th hole. Fleetwood's tee shot found the water, leading to a devastating triple-bogey seven. This single blow effectively ended his championship challenge, a brutal reminder of the fine margins at the pinnacle of major golf.
Fleetwood fought valiantly on the back nine, carding two further birdies, but the damage was irreparable. He signed for a final round of 72, finishing the tournament at 10-under-par and in a tie for 26th place—a bitterly disappointing outcome after such a promising start.
McIlroy's Quest for Major Glory Goes On
It was also a day of frustration for Rory McIlroy. The Northern Irishman, a previous winner at Valhalla, was unable to mount a sustained challenge on a course that holds fond memories. A final round of 67 left him in a respectable tie for 12th place, but it was not the triumphant return he had envisioned as his wait for a fifth major title continues.
Schauffele Seals His Place in History
While Fleetwood and McIlroy faltered, Xander Schauffele held his nerve to capture his first major victory. In a tense duel with Bryson DeChambeau, Schauffele birdied the final hole to clinch the Wanamaker Trophy by a single shot. Viktor Hovland also impressed, finishing in a tie for third, signalling a return to his brilliant best form.
For Tommy Fleetwood, the search for that elusive major breakthrough goes on, with this Valhalla collapse set to sting for some time.
