Who Is Alex Smalley’s girlfriend? PGA Championship leader dating Duke Athletics director Chelsea Groves

As Alex Smalley chases the biggest victory of his career at the PGA Championship, interest in the American golfer’s life away from the course has also surged — particularly surrounding his relationship with girlfriend Chelsea Groves.

The 29-year-old takes a two-shot lead into the final round at Aronimink as he looks to secure not only his first major championship but also his maiden PGA Tour victory in remarkable fashion.

Smalley sits at six-under par ahead of a stacked chasing pack featuring Jon Rahm, Ludvig Åberg, Aaron Rai, Matti Schmid and Nick Taylor. Rory McIlroy, Xander Schauffele, Maverick McNealy and Patrick Reed are also within striking distance at three-under, while defending champion Scottie Scheffler starts the day five shots back.

While Smalley’s composed ball-striking and consistency have long marked him out as a player capable of competing at the highest level, this season has also brought happiness away from golf through his relationship with Groves.

Although it remains unclear exactly how the pair first met, they share a strong connection through Duke University in North Carolina. 

Smalley starred for the Duke Blue Devils golf team throughout his collegiate career, earning multiple All-ACC honours and being named ACC Student-Athlete of the Year in 2019.

Groves currently works as the Director of Social Media for Duke Athletics and has built her own career in sports media and broadcasting. She regularly shares behind-the-scenes moments from basketball games and sideline interviews across her social media platforms.

The couple made their relationship Instagram official in November last year with a fall-themed selfie posted to both of their accounts.

Smalley, originally from Rochester, New York, has steadily climbed the professional ranks since making his first major appearance at the 2017 U.S. Open. 

Strong performances on PGA Tour Canada helped him secure his PGA Tour card in 2022, and he has since recorded runner-up finishes at the Corales Puntacana Championship and the John Deere Classic.

Now, with the Wanamaker Trophy potentially within touching distance, Smalley stands on the verge of a career-defining breakthrough — and it appears he is enjoying success both on and off the golf course.