PGA Championship Round Three Delayed Due to Dangerous Weather

CHARLOTTE, North Carolina — The start of the third round of the 2025 PGA Championship has been delayed due to dangerous weather conditions in the area. Play was set to begin at 8:15 a.m. ET, but lightning within an eight-mile radius prompted officials to suspend all activities until conditions improve.

Practice grounds were closed, and spectators were instructed to seek shelter. The storms are expected to clear by late morning, allowing the third round to commence at approximately 11:43 a.m. ET. Players will proceed in groups of three rather than pairs, teeing off from both the first and tenth tees.

The tournament is being held at Quail Hollow Club for the first time since 2017, with defending champion Xander Schauffele looking to maintain his title. He faces a competitive field that includes world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and Masters champion Rory McIlroy.

The weather has been a significant concern throughout the week due to heavy rains. A low-pressure system over Mississippi is moving Gulf moisture into the Carolinas, resulting in expected scattered showers and thunderstorms on Monday and throughout the week.

As of now, Jhonattan Vegas leads the tournament at 8-under par, followed closely by Matthieu Pavon, Si Woo Kim, and Matt Fitzpatrick at 6-under. Scottie Scheffler and Max Homa are at 5-under, and several other top players are within striking distance.

The storms are forecasted to ease by around 10 a.m. ET, raising hopes that the day’s play will resume without further disruptions. Rory McIlroy expressed his frustration with the delay, using colorful language as he approached the tee just moments before the horn sounded.

The PGA Championship has a history of dealing with weather delays, and officials are well-prepared for such occurrences. However, tournament participants are anxious about how the weather could affect the course conditions, particularly the potential for ‘mud balls’ due to the wet ground.

Officials are closely monitoring the weather situation and remain optimistic that players will be able to finish the round today. The forecast for the remainder of the weekend suggests improved conditions, with temperatures expected to reach the mid-80s, providing a better environment for competitors.