Xander Schauffele recently shared his thoughts on playing alongside Rickie Fowler during the PGA Championship. Their partnership came during the third round at Aronimink, where Schauffele showcased his skills with a remarkable 4-under par round.
Xander Schauffele’s Impressive Performance
Having previously won the PGA Championship in 2024, Schauffele entered this round determined to improve after struggling with a 73 on Friday. His resilience paid off, as he climbed to a total score of 3-under, now just two shots behind the leader, Alex Smalley.
Experiencing the Thrill of Pairing with Rickie Fowler
Schauffele expressed delight in sharing the course with Fowler, who held a score of 1-under for the major. He commented, “It was awesome playing Rickie. He plays really fast and very positive.” The camaraderie enhanced their overall experience in the tournament.
“He played great, too, didn’t make a bogey,” Schauffele added. “It’s always enjoyable to compete alongside someone who is also making birdies.” This positive interaction contributed to both players’ momentum as they approached the final round.
Insights into Schauffele’s Game Play
Reflecting on his performance, Schauffele noted significant improvements in his tee and iron shots. “The putter kept me in it yesterday,” he stated. “Today, I was able to achieve more birdie opportunities.” His strategy involved focusing on quality shots rather than settling for par.
Coping with Challenging Conditions
Despite the favorable round, Schauffele acknowledged the difficulties faced in the earlier rounds. He described the course setup, particularly the pin placements, as “tricky” and “diabolical.”
- Schauffele’s total score: 3-under
- Leader: Alex Smalley at 5-under
- Fowler’s score during the round: 1-under
Now, as Schauffele looks ahead to the final round, he remains optimistic about his performance and the opportunity to capture another major title. This drive reflects his commitment to excellence on the PGA Tour.
