13/05/2026
The 2026 USPGA begins tomorrow, and with it comes a very different dynamic to the golfing season. The second major of the year is always a case of now is the time. Excuses can always be made for the first — same venue, not for me — but this week is a new edition and, for some, a completely new canvas. Who will create their masterpiece?
The very fact that you only get four bites at the cherry adds to the pressure and excitement. We had a brilliant first major, but the PGA always throws up a new name, a new hope of breaking that glass ceiling. Ultimately, the ability to withstand four days of the ultimate pressure determines the victor.
As always, there are many players who feel this is their time, and for others, the dream of that special week is the ultimate driving force.
Scottie Scheffler is the yardstick for all the players. He is the defending champion and does seem to have all the tools to retain his title. He has won this year, was a shot away from another Masters, and has finished runner-up in two signature tournaments.
The point is that it is impossible to see him out of the mix. But so far this season, he has always had somebody just pip him. His level remains ferocious, but three guys have had their weeks.
This is a great source of frustration for him, but the flip side is that he is so close. He has suffered with slow starts this season when wanting it the most. If Scheffler can start hot, it might be ominous for the chasing pack.
Rory McIlroy has entered rarefied air at the moment. His victory in August has yet again cemented his legacy. Now, with six majors and a Grand Slam in his locker, his focus and mindset have shifted.
There can be no doubt that Scheffler is the best player, but Rory has found a new target and focus. Both at it come the weekend would be a joy to behold. But I feel Rory has substantially reduced the emotional gap. He now feels back in front and in control of his own destiny.
His long break post-Augusta confirms this. He had a steady return last week at Quail Hollow and should be firing on all cylinders, give or take some blister trouble.
Seven sounds so much more than six, and it seems a mile away from being sat on four majors for 11 years.
I think whoever finishes in front of these two is your winner.
We have four Irish players competing this week. I do think Shane Lowry is massively under the radar, and he should have a great week. His iron play will be a key factor this week.
It has been a mixed season for Shane, but still with so much promise. He should be well rested after his mini break, and the next three months bring huge opportunities.
Tom McKibbin is turning into a seasoned veteran at such a young age. He has performed very well on LIV and should relish the chance this week. He has all the ability and calmness to have a great week.
Pádraig Harrington brings up the rear, and it is just marvellous to see him still ambitious to achieve. As a former champion, he is exempt, but he is not here for ceremony and will be keen to perform.
Kiawah Island in 2021 proved that the magic is still there. His fourth-place finish alongside Shane Lowry was a wonderful watch.
Hopefully, Pádraig can have another run at it amongst the next generation.
Seapoint hosted a brilliant Flogas Ireland Amateur Open last week.
Patrick Keeling rounded off a record-breaking week with victory. His course-record 62 on Friday set up a nervy victory on Sunday.
It was a breakout win for Keeling. He has lived in his younger brother Sean's shadow, but no more.
With a very strong field, and with a home Walker Cup in Lahinch in September, it can make him dream of bigger things.
I got to walk around for three days, and the talent on show was impressive. It augurs well for the remainder of the summer.
Stuart Grehan put up a stout defence with third place and, at the moment, seems like our only player for that team in September.
So now is the time, with a big run of tournaments ahead, for players to stake their claims to Captain Dean Robertson.
I remember the 1991 Walker Cup in Portmarnock. It was the thrill of a lifetime, and no doubt Lahinch will be the same.
Winning big championships is the solution for selection. Keeling has started off in the right fashion.
USPGA Selections.
Rory McIlroy
Scottie Scheffler
Akshay Bhatia
Tyrrell Hatton
Min Woo Lee
Matt Fitzpatrick
