Jon Rahm, the Spanish golf star, is making waves at the PGA Championship, showcasing his prowess and offering an insightful critique of the greens at Aronimink. His performance has been nothing short of impressive, with a three-under 67 on Saturday, placing him just two shots behind leader Alex Smalley. This is Rahm's third career major win and his first since joining LIV Golf, a testament to his resilience and skill.
Rahm's assessment of the greens is particularly noteworthy. He describes them as "hard," emphasizing the challenge of two-putting from the middle of the green due to the slopes and pin locations. This is a stark contrast to the usual safe haven of being in the middle, where players can often rely on a smooth roll to the hole. Rahm's strategy is to carefully consider where he leaves his ball, acknowledging that the middle isn't always the best option.
The course setup at Aronimink has been a topic of discussion, with many players finding it challenging. The wide fairways, combined with the slopes and wind, create a unique and demanding environment. Rahm commends the PGA for their setup, noting that they've chosen hard pin locations that challenge players to keep their shots close. This setup has resulted in a tightly bunched leaderboard, promising an exciting final day.
Rahm's performance on the LIV Golf tour has been exceptional, with two wins from seven starts. However, he has struggled to translate this form into major championships, most recently finishing T38 at The Masters. The challenge of Aronimink, with its tricky greens and demanding setup, presents an opportunity for Rahm to shine and potentially secure a much-needed major win.
In his own words, Rahm expresses his thoughts on the course's difficulty, questioning the optimism of those who predicted low scores. He highlights the importance of accurate shots and the impact of wind and slope on the fairways. This perspective adds a layer of complexity to the tournament, showcasing the mental fortitude required to navigate such a challenging course.
As the tournament progresses, Rahm's honest and detailed analysis of the greens provides valuable insights for both players and spectators. His ability to handle pressure and maintain a high level of performance makes him a strong contender for the title. The final round promises to be an exciting spectacle, with Rahm's commentary adding to the anticipation and intrigue of the PGA Championship.