Rory McIlroy Finds Calm and Scores a Strong 66

McIlroy entered the third round of the PGA Championship feeling relaxed after a rough first day. He had finished 48 hours earlier with a 74, and many players were frustrated over difficult pin placements. This time the course was easier, the weather nicer, and the wind changed direction. The green positions were less harsh. Players like Xander Schauffele said the pins were “pretty diabolical” earlier, but this round felt more forgiving. The average score dropped by three strokes compared to the first two rounds. McIlroy’s start was solid. He hit par through four holes and then birdied the fifth. On the sixth, a 397‑yard drive with wind behind it landed near the front of the green. He two‑putted for a birdie, keeping his confidence high. Birdies on holes nine, eleven and thirteen pushed him to five under par. A bogey at the 17th and a missed fairway on the final hole left him just one stroke shy of his target.He believes a better finish could have moved him into the lead. Eight former major champions were close to the top after three rounds, including McIlroy and world number one Scottie Scheffler. McIlroy has a history of big comebacks, such as his 2025 Masters win after falling behind early. He used practice sessions to refine his drives, which helped him shoot a 67 on the second day. Setting small goals has worked for McIlroy. He aimed to reach even par after the second day and was one stroke short, but that focus kept him calm. He has recorded 25 rounds of 66 or better in majors, second only to Tiger Woods. If he can move past the crowded leaderboard, McIlroy would claim his seventh major title and tie Harry Vardon for most by a European. He is also halfway to completing the Grand Slam, having won consecutive Masters titles. The final day promises excitement. McIlroy noted that frustrating greens can make the event entertaining for both players and fans.