The PGA Championship, the second major of the golf season, begins today at Aronimink Golf Club, featuring the sport’s top talents. However, attention has shifted to a press conference revelation involving Erica Stoll, wife of Rory McIlroy, and a controversial moment from last year’s Ryder Cup.
Stoll Incident Draws Renewed Scrutiny
During Wednesday’s PGA of America press conference, CEO Terry Clark addressed backlash against President Don Rea. Rea faced heavy criticism for delaying an apology after a spectator threw a cup at Stoll during the Ryder Cup. Rea has remained largely out of the public eye since the incident.
Clark, stepping in for Rea, provided limited details on the president’s current duties. “First off, I’ve been asked by the board to help represent the business of the association, and how we think about our membership is something that we continue to have Don focused on from that side,” Clark stated.
He added, “This, I think I’m first of all gratified that I’ve been asked to take this today and handle with [Chief Championships Officer Kerry Haigh] where we are.” Pressed further, Clark explained, “Specifically, what we’ve asked is for Don to keep his focus on the member side, and we’ve tried to keep the right responsibilities across our distinct leaders in here.”
Key Players Hit the Course
World No. 1 and defending champion Scottie Scheffler tees off at 7:05 p.m. BST, positioning him among the favorites for victory.
Rory McIlroy, fresh off back-to-back Masters wins, starts on hole one more than five hours earlier. The Northern Irishman switched to softer shoes to address a toe blister, according to Riley Hamel of Skratch.
Michael Block Draws Playful Boos
PGA Championship competitor Michael Block entertained fans with a mishap, earning light-hearted boos after missing his target. The 49-year-old aimed for a distant electrical pole but drove his ball into a fairway bunker instead, prompting laughter and mock jeers from the crowd.
