The PGA Championship is just days away as the year’s second major returns to Valhalla for the first time since 2014.
A stacked field has descended on the Louisville venue, with excitement certainly building ahead of what could be one of the most closely contested major championships in years.
Scottie Scheffler is the red-hot favourite to land his fifth victory in six outings after picking up his second green jacket at Augusta and the title at the RBC Heritage.
Brooks Koepka is also in good form after winning LIV Golf’s Singapore event. The 34-year-old certainly stands a chance of returning his 2023 title.
Another player who stands a chance is Rory McIlroy. The Northern Irishman is coming off a dominant victory at the Wells Fargo and was triumphant the last time the PGA Championship visited Valhalla ten years ago.
There’s every chance of McIlroy landing his fifth major, and Peter Finch’s Rough Cut Podcast have delved into the reasons why the 35-year-old is the man to beat at Valhalla.
1. World ranking
As highlighted by Jacob on the Rough Cut, world ranking has typically had a big part to play regarding the PGA Championship. Out of the last 12 winners, nine have come in the top 23 in the world. McIlroy is currently number two in the world behind Scheffler.
2. Driving distance
Since 2011, only two players have won whilst averaging less than 301 yards off the tee. Historically, 30th or above [PGA Tour ranking] in driving distance win the PGA Championship. Collin Morikawa and Jason Dufner were the outliers.
McIlroy is the fourth-longest hitter present at Valhalla this week.
3. Winning form in 2024
Another essential aspect centres around winning before the event. Seven of the last ten winners have tasted victory prior to winning the PGA Championship.
Fortunately for McIlroy, he’s jumped back into the winner’s circle after his recent outings at the Zurich Classic and the Wells Fargo.
4. Major pedigree
Major pedigree coming into the event is also highlighted as a crucial part of being successful at the PGA Championship. Seven of the last ten champions have posted a top-ten finish in the previous two majors.
Looking at The Masters and The Open, McIlroy finished T6 at Royal Liverpool last year before his disappointing outing at Augusta.
After assessing all these metrics, the signs are undoubtedly positive for McIlroy as he looks to end his ten-year wait for his fifth major title.
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