Despite Being Action-Packed, PGA Championship Gets Berated by Golf World After Their Valhalla Decision Goes Wrong

Valhalla GC had already captured the attention of many leading up to the tournament. While the first round of the PGA Championship didn’t raise any eyebrows, the atmosphere shifted dramatically after the start of the second round. At least, that’s the sentiment among fans. But why?

Indeed, the explanation for this lies in various factors, foremost of them being Scottie Scheffler. Even before the second round commenced, the top-ranked golfer found himself in the spotlight, having become involved in a serious misunderstanding with the metro police. He was charged with second-degree assault of a police officer, third-degree criminal mischief, reckless driving, and disregarding traffic signals from an officer directing traffic, as per reports on the day, but released later.

A tragic accident had occurred on the same day near Valhalla, where a shuttle bus fatally struck a worker affiliated with one of the PGA Championship’s vendors outside GC.

After the second round resumed, there was a glimmer of hope for better circumstances. However, that hope quickly faded as a revelation emerged concerning the statistics of the PGA Championship. It pushed the patience of fans to its limit, prompting a reaction from the community directed towards Louisville, Kentucky.

A recent post from @NotLayingUp on X, previously known as Twitter, surfaced with the caption “Valhalla is going to get absolutely massacred today.” The significance of this caption became apparent when it disclosed that Valhalla had “Already 60 birdies and 2 eagles up against just 38 bogeys and 1 double.” 

It’s not about who’s leading, but how they got there. This stat shows the PGA Championship has been relatively easy, and fans doubt whether it’s up to major tournament standards.

In 2014, when Rory McIlroy won the PGA Championship, fans felt major tournaments should be tougher, given the caliber of golfers competing for the Wanamaker Trophy. This year, similar sentiments are evident not just about scores but also incidents. This was clear from the diverse reactions in the comments across the internet.

Negative reactions directed toward “cursed” Valhalla GC

This fan took a jab at the golf course, calling it the “worst major venue — maybe ever.” They emphasized how easy it has been, with 60 birdies already made, compared to other major championship courses known for their difficulty. Additionally, they suggested it shouldn’t be considered for future championships.

This fan commented, stating, “Not my major championship.” This likely emphasizes how Brooks Koepka, the current defending champion, had to go the extra mile to dominate Oak Hill, sinking 18 birdies alone and tying the highest record to win the tournament. This year, it seems this kind of excitement is absent from the course.

A fan commented, “Never return to Louisville. Place is cursed.” This sentiment may not solely be about high scores, but rather about the unfortunate incidents, including the recent accident. They further suggested it’s best to avoid choosing Valhalla GC.

One fan bluntly stated, “So boring. Majors should present a tough golfing challenge. Just more American Bomb and Gouge.” This likely refers to last year’s Sunday duel between Viktor Hovland and Koepka, which had fans on the edge. Koepka concluded the match with three holes remaining after his shot soared high, landed at the front of the green, and ultimately rolled just past the hole.

Another fan commented, “And somehow I bet all the guys that made the bogies and doubles.” This comment reflects on how Valhalla doesn’t present much challenge to the golfers at the level of major championships, as it has been relatively easy for the pros to make bogeys and doubles.

As the tension mounts, Valhalla GC captures the attention of fans in various ways.

Stay tuned to EssentiallySports for timely updates on the ongoing 2024 PGA Championship.