The third day of a major is colloquially known as ‘moving day’, when players position themselves for a Sunday challenge.
Scattered thunderstorms meant the start here was delayed by more than three hours, with play switched to begin from the first and 10th tees and the field of 74 competing in three-balls rather than in groups of two.
The change did not slow down several of golf’s star names, but it was Scheffler who surged clear thanks to a stunning finish to his round.
The catalyst was his drive on the 304-yard par-four 14th, which came to rest three feet from the cup. From there, he made an eagle two.
Breathtaking iron play brought birdies on 15 and 17 before he finally closed out Quail Hollow’s toughest hole, the 18th, by sinking his 10-foot birdie putt and clenching his fist in satisfaction.
“You work your whole life to have a chance to win major tournaments,” said Scheffler. “Tomorrow I have a good opportunity to go out there and try and win but it’s going to take another really good round.”
In 2024, Scheffler won eight times, but has only one victory so far this season after a freak hand injury at Christmas delayed his season.
That win however did come in his most recent start at the Byron Nelson Classic – and it was by eight shots.
Only four players this century have won the US PGA Championship after coming from three or more behind at the 54-hole stage. With Scheffler in this mood, that feat looks particularly daunting this weekend.
