Alex Smalley took a commanding position on the leaderboard Saturday during the third round of the 2026 PGA Championship [1].
The results of the third round, known as moving day, determine which golfers enter the final round with a realistic chance at the title. With a tightly contested field, a few low scores have shifted the dynamics of the tournament as players fight for the championship trophy.
The action took place at Aronimink Golf Club in Pennsylvania [2]. A total of 84 golfers teed off for the third round [3]. Smalley emerged as a primary leader, though reports on the exact margin vary. One account said Smalley grabbed a two-shot lead [1], while another said he shared the 36-hole lead at 4-under with Maverick McNealy [4].
Other top contenders faced mixed fortunes on Saturday. Rory McIlroy posted a 4-under 66 during his third round [5]. Meanwhile, Scottie Scheffler struggled to maintain momentum, finishing the day at 1-over par after recording a bogey [6].
The volatility of the leaderboard reflects the difficulty of the Aronimink course. The competition remained dense throughout the day, with several players posting low rounds to climb the rankings. Smalley's ability to maintain a lead heading into the final day places him in a prime position to challenge for the victory.
“Alex Smalley took a commanding position on the leaderboard Saturday”
The emergence of Alex Smalley as a leader disrupts the expected dominance of perennial favorites like Scottie Scheffler. By securing a lead or a share of the lead on moving day, Smalley has shifted the psychological pressure onto the chasing pack, including Rory McIlroy, who remains a threat after a strong Saturday performance.
