Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele Speak Out About Muddy Conditions at 2025 PGA Championship
The 2025 PGA Championship teed off with high anticipation, but the opening round was marred by less-than-ideal playing conditions, drawing vocal criticism from top contenders Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele. The muddy course at Southern Hills Golf Club in Tulsa, Oklahoma, proved to be a major obstacle for several players, significantly impacting performance and pace of play.
Following their rounds, both Scheffler and Schauffele didn’t hold back in expressing their frustration. Scheffler, currently ranked World No. 1, described the conditions as “extremely tough and unfair,” citing the inconsistent lies and heavy mud on golf balls as a major disruption.
“It’s frustrating when you hit a perfect drive and then walk up to see your ball covered in mud,” Scheffler said during his post-round interview. “It changes everything—your approach shot, your spin control, and your confidence.”
Xander Schauffele echoed the same sentiments, pointing to the lack of “preferred lies” or “lift, clean, and place” rules in effect. The 2024 Olympic gold medalist noted that players were at the mercy of unpredictable bounces and messy terrain throughout the round.
“At this level, in a major championship, you expect the course to be fair. Today it felt more like survival than strategy,” Schauffele remarked. “We prepare for tough challenges, but when mud is dictating play, it becomes more about luck than skill.”
Southern Hills, known for its classic design and demanding layout, was hit by overnight rainstorms just days before the tournament began. Despite efforts by the grounds crew to maintain playability, large portions of the fairways and rough remained saturated, resulting in muddy lies and slow turf conditions.
The PGA of America has yet to respond directly to the players’ comments, but sources suggest a potential rule adjustment could be implemented if the weather continues to compromise fair play. Tournament officials are reportedly monitoring forecasts closely and may introduce “lift, clean, and place” rules in specific areas of the course by Round 2.
Fans and analysts have been quick to side with the players, pointing out that the championship stage deserves optimal conditions for fair competition. Many have taken to social media, calling for immediate action to preserve the integrity of the tournament.
Despite the setbacks, both Scheffler and Schauffele remain optimistic about their chances moving forward. Scheffler added, “It’s only Round 1. We’ve got a long way to go, and I’m focused on adjusting and staying sharp.”
Conclusion
The 2025 PGA Championship got off to a bumpy start as muddy course conditions disrupted the opening round and drew sharp criticism from top stars Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on whether the PGA makes adjustments to ensure fairness and restore balance to this prestigious major.
