In a story straight out of a golf fairytale, Alex Smalley grabbed the first-round lead at the 2025 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow Club – less than 24 hours after learning he’d even be competing in the year’s second major.
The 28-year-old American, who was first alternate after narrowly missing qualification, received a last-minute call when another player withdrew Wednesday evening. Showing remarkable composure, Smalley fired an opening-round 65 (-6) to stun the star-studded field.
“I got the call around 7 pm last night,” an elated Smalley revealed after his round. “I had to scramble to get my caddie here, rearrange travel plans, and mentally prepare. Honestly, I think not having time to overthink it helped me play free out there.”
Smalley’s bogey-free round featured precise iron play and clutch putting, outshining pre-tournament favorites like defending champion Xander Schauffele and world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler. His performance was particularly impressive given he hadn’t played a practice round at the demanding Quail Hollow layout.
The Duke University product, who has one Korn Ferry Tour win but is still seeking his first PGA Tour victory, now faces the challenge of maintaining his lead over golf’s biggest names. “This is why you practice every day,” Smalley said. “For opportunities like this. I’m just going to try to keep the same mindset tomorrow.”
Tournament officials noted this marked the first time since 2019 that a last-minute alternate held the first-round lead in a major championship. With three rounds remaining, Smalley’s Cinderella story has become must-watch drama at the PGA Championship.
Key Takeaways:
• Smalley’s 65 came with just 14 hours’ notice of his tournament entry
• Leads by two strokes over a group including Patrick Cantlay and Will Zalatoris
• Could become first alternate to win a major since John Daly at 1991 PGA
• Next round will test whether he can handle leaderboard pressure
As Friday’s second round approaches, all eyes will be on the unheralded Smalley to see if his dream start can become a historic week in golf.