Alex Smalley goes from alternate to contending in a span of 20 hours at PGA Championship
- Alex Smalley went from being the first alternate to shooting a 4-under 67 at the PGA Championship within about 20 hours at Quail Hollow in May 2025.
- Smalley earned his spot after Sahith Theegala withdrew late due to a neck injury, while Smalley prepared as if playing from the start despite uncertainty.
- Smalley’s 67 kept him near the top of the leaderboard, marking his lowest PGA Championship score in his third appearance on a demanding course of 7,626 yards.
- Smalley stated that his preparation was consistent with any typical week, expressed sympathy for Theegala, and showed appreciation for the support from fans.
- Smalley’s sudden entry and strong round suggest his readiness to compete in major events despite past injuries and alternate status at the tournament.
26 Articles
26 Articles
Greensboro's Alex Smalley goes from alternate to contending in a span of 20 hours at PGA Championship
Alex Smalley was the fifth alternate in the PGA Championship when the field was announced last week. He was first alternate when the week began. And then in a span of about 20 hours, he went from first alternate to…

Alex Smalley goes from alternate to contending in a span of 20 hours at PGA Championship
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Alex Smalley was on the putting green at Quail Hollow, going through his drills and looking like any of the other 156 players at the PGA Championship. But he wasn't. On the eve of the major,…
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