Jhonattan Vegas Sorprende y Scottie Scheffler se Posiciona en el PGA Championship
The second round of the PGA Championship has concluded, and although the issues with mud balls from the first round were less discussed, several players made significant moves, maintaining a diverse and interesting leaderboard.
Some of the unexpected names that led the table after the first round couldn’t keep up the pace, but 40-year-old Jhonattan Vegas held firm and now leads after 54 holes. However, the biggest story could be that of world number 1, Scottie Scheffler, who shot a 3-under par, putting himself in a prime position to secure his third major.
“I think the most important thing is to be close to the lead. In a 72-hole tournament, there will be times when you are not playing your best golf. It’s crucial how you respond to those moments. Today, I responded well to my mistakes and stayed in the tournament,” Scheffler commented.
Scottie Scheffler
Scheffler remains the favorite to take home the Wanamaker Trophy.
Jhonattan Vegas leads at the halfway point; what are his chances of winning?
Jhonattan Vegas has a two-stroke lead before the third round.
Vegas, a standout player in his youth in Venezuela, moved to Houston in 2004 due to threats from the government. Upon arriving in the United States, he spoke very little English and had a set of used clubs. He managed to obtain a scholarship at the University of Texas. After turning professional, he spent two years on the Korn Ferry Tour before winning his first PGA Tour tournament at the Bob Hope Classic in 2011. Since then, Vegas has won three times, most recently at the 3M Open in July.
A double bogey on the 18th hole marred a solid second round for Vegas, who finished with 1-under-par 70 and a two-stroke lead. Despite losing almost a stroke in the second round, his game from tee to green continued to be exceptional.
According to data, Vegas has a 9.4% chance of winning. Scottie Scheffler and Bryson DeChambeau complete the top three favorites.
“I feel like my game is very complete, but I haven’t been able to put it all together in a major. I’ve been patient enough not to get discouraged by not playing well in the majors. It’s one of those things where you have to keep learning about yourself and what it takes to play well here. Unfortunately, it’s taking me a little longer than usual, but I’m glad to be in this position right now,” Vegas stated.
Which players outside the top 10 could win?
Bryson DeChambeau, who was chosen to win before the tournament, is still within striking distance at 3 under par. DeChambeau is the leader in driving distance (331.6 yards). However, his iron play hasn’t been as precise, and he’s not happy with his approach game.
Jon Rahm, with two solid rounds, is at 2 under par, six strokes behind Vegas, entering the weekend. The Spaniard has struggled to get into contention since winning the Masters in 2023, but continues to accumulate top-10 finishes in LIV.
How far is too far to be in the running?
Players like Collin Morikawa, Rory McIlroy, and Xander Schauffele will need to play in the low 60s to have any chance.
Who is your favorite for the weekend?
Scottie Scheffler looks inevitable, but Bryson DeChambeau is also in the fight.
What was the biggest disappointment among the players who didn’t make the cut?
Justin Thomas and Ludvig Åberg will not be at Quail Hollow for the weekend.
