2025 PGA Championship: Round 3 Preview, Coverage, and Key Players

As the 2025 PGA Championship unfolds, all eyes are on Quail Hollow Club, where anticipation builds as players gear up for the pivotal third round. The cut has been made, and the remaining competitors are set to battle it out on one of the season’s most respected courses. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to watching the tournament live, a snapshot of the leaderboard, and an analysis of key players poised to make a significant impact.

Watching the Third Round of the 2025 PGA Championship

Fans eager to catch the action of the 2025 PGA Championship can tune in through several broadcasting platforms. CBS and ESPN will lead the television coverage, ensuring that viewers do not miss a minute of the exciting golf action. ESPN will kick off the day’s coverage at 10 a.m. ET, transitioning to CBS from 1 p.m. ET onwards.

For those interested in streaming the tournament, services like ESPN+ will showcase exclusive coverage of the rounds, including featured groups and early morning action that begins at 8 a.m. ET. With PGA Tour Live on ESPN+, fans can stream matches from anywhere, only enhancing the viewing experience.

Who’s Leading the Tournament?

Heading into the third round, Jhonattan Vegas has established himself at the top of the leaderboard. However, he faces stiff competition from some of golf’s elite. Among those trailing closely are the world-renowned Scottie Scheffler and Max Homa, both sitting at five under par, just three shots behind the leader. Their ability to perform under pressure makes them formidable contenders as the tournament progresses.

Additionally, veterans like Rory McIlroy and Xander Schauffele, while currently at one over, are not out of contention just yet. Given the unpredictable nature of Quail Hollow, where double bogeys abound, there remains ample opportunity for a comeback.

Key Matchups to Watch

Saturday’s tee times promise to deliver thrilling matchups. Players such as Viktor Hovland and Jon Rahm, who are both consistent performers, will be starting just after noon. Their track records demonstrate an ability to push through tight situations, making their round crucial as they seek to climb the leaderboard.

Other notable pairings to keep an eye on include Tony Finau, who is known for his strong finishes in tournaments, and Bryson DeChambeau, whose powerful game should shine on Quail Hollow’s demanding course.

The Challenge of Quail Hollow

Quail Hollow is renowned not only for its picturesque landscapes but also for its challenging course design. Players face various obstacles, including well-placed water hazards and strategically positioned bunkers. These elements can lead to critical mistakes, as seen earlier in the tournament with numerous players recording double bogeys.

The course demands precision and strategy, making the ability to navigate tricky holes a deciding factor in the tournament’s outcome. Expect this round to showcase players adapting their strategies in real-time, especially as conditions evolve during play.

TV and Online Streaming Coverage Schedule

Watching the 2025 PGA Championship has never been easier, thanks to extensive coverage across multiple platforms. Here’s a detailed breakdown of Saturday’s schedule:

ESPN

• 8 a.m. – 10 a.m. ET: Early coverage on ESPN+
• 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. ET: Live coverage on ESPN

CBS

• 1 p.m. – 7 p.m. ET: Comprehensive coverage on CBS

Featured Group Coverage

• Available on ESPN+ throughout the day, offering fans insights into key players’ rounds.

Be sure to mark your calendars; the excitement begins early!

Round 3 Tee Times

With such a high-stakes environment, below are the updated tee times for Round 3 (all times ET):

• Tee No. 1

  • 11:43 a.m.: Joaquin Niemann, Tyrrell Hatton, Wyndham Clark
  • 12:05 p.m.: Viktor Hovland, Tommy Fleetwood, Jon Rahm
  • 1:44 p.m.: Si Woo Kim, Max Homa, Scottie Scheffler
• Tee No. 10
  • 11:48 a.m.: Rafael Campos, Matt Wallace, Tom McKibbin
  • 12:21 p.m.: Byeong Hun An, Collin Morikawa, Cameron Young
  • 1:38 p.m.: Chris Kirk, Rory McIlroy, Xander Schauffele

These pairings could lead to exciting dynamics on the course, with players pushing each other to perform at their peak.

Potential Upsets and Dark Horses

While big names dominate the spotlight, tournaments like these can reveal unexpected surprises. Pay attention to players ranked lower who have the potential to create waves in the tournament. For instance, Cam Davis and Joe Highsmith have shown promising form this week and could very well shake up the standings with a strong third-round performance.

Knowing the unpredictable nature of championships, it’s wise to keep an eye on these underdogs who might capitalize on the errors of their more illustrious counterparts.

What to Expect: Strategic Gameplay and Weather Challenges

As Saturday’s round approaches, strategic gameplay will be pivotal. Competitors must assess not only their strengths but also the state of the course and weather conditions. Early forecasts suggested possible weather interruptions, which could influence tee assignments. Players must adapt accordingly and remain focused amidst distractions.

Quail Hollow has shown its capacity to present challenges based on environmental factors, and anyone watching can expect a thrilling day filled with drive, skill, and sometimes sheer luck.

Join the Conversation

As we dive further into the championship, engage with fellow golf fans to share insights, predictions, and excitement. Follow updates from various sports news outlets and join interactive discussions on platforms like Twitter and specialized golf forums.

In conclusion, the 2025 PGA Championship’s third round promises to be filled with drama, strategic shifts, and nail-biting scenarios. With a talented field of competitors and a challenging course, fans will want to stay glued to their screens. Be prepared for an unforgettable day of golf and may the best player win!