Just hours before the 2025 PGA Championship officially began, Alex Smalley found himself in a surprising position. As an alternate, Smalley’s chance to compete depended on another player withdrawing, which turned out to be Sahith Theegala, who sadly pulled out due to a neck injury just before the tournament.
The announcement came in the afternoon before the championship, allowing Smalley to take his place in the field. By the end of his first round on Thursday, he delivered an impressive performance, finishing with a four-under-par 67, which tied him for the clubhouse lead alongside Ryan Fox, who is enjoying an exceptional streak of form.
Starting his round on the back nine, Smalley managed to secure three birdies against one bogey. His momentum continued as he completed the front nine with a remarkable score of 33, which included an eagle on the seventh hole.
Reflecting on his experience, Smalley mentioned, “I’ve been first alternate a few other times,” recalling similar situations in past tournaments. He noted that while he has had some luck in securing a spot as an alternate, he’d prefer not to be in that uncertain position again.
This whirlwind experience from being on the sidelines to finding himself atop the leaderboard showcases the unpredictable nature of golf. It serves as a reminder that sometimes, uncertainty can fuel breakthrough performances. Smalley’s journey highlights the resilience and determination needed in professional sports, emphasizing that all it takes is an unexpected opportunity to shine.