A Showdown at Pinehurst: 124th U.S. Open Preview
In what promises to be an exhilarating showdown at Pinehurst No. 2, the 124th U.S. Open is set to tee off, drawing considerable attention from golf enthusiasts around the world. This year's tournament features a lineup of impressive contenders, each bringing their unique flair and expertise to the greens.
Leading the Charge
Leading the charge into this year's U.S. Open are two major winners already celebrated for their significant strides in the golf world. Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele, both seasoned and accomplished golfers, have poised themselves as strong favorites. However, it's not just these two who are catching the eyes of fans and analysts alike.
Collin Morikawa, a name synonymous with consistency and precision, has been making waves with top-five finishes in both the Masters and the PGA Championship. Entering the 2024 U.S. Open, Morikawa is riding a hot streak, having secured top-five finishes in his last three tournaments. Should he secure a victory at Pinehurst, he will have completed 75% of his career Grand Slam—a feat achieved by only a fortunate few.
Current Odds and Major Contenders
Morikawa is among seven golfers with odds under 15-1 in the current 2024 U.S. Open betting lineup. Joining him are formidable contenders such as Scheffler at 11-4, Schauffele at 10-1, Bryson DeChambeau also at 10-1, and Ludvig Aberg at 14-1. These odds reflect the intense competition and high stakes awaiting the players at Pinehurst.
Interestingly, McClure's predictive model has gained a sterling reputation since the PGA Tour resumed in June 2020. This model has accrued nearly $9,000 in best bets earnings since the restart, establishing itself as a reliable resource for bettors. It has accurately predicted numerous tournament outcomes, notably Scheffler's victories at the 2024 Masters, Arnold Palmer Invitational, and The Players Championship. Additionally, it successfully tipped Hideki Matsuyama for the 2024 Genesis Invitational with a remarkable +9000 bet.
Track Record and Predictions
The model's knack for predicting major wins is evident, having correctly forecasted Jon Rahm's triumphs at the 2023 Sentry Tournament of Champions, The American Express, and his second career major at the 2023 Masters. With 12 major predictions nailed, including the last three Masters and the 2024 PGA Championship, the model has solidified its reputation for accuracy.
One of the model's top predictions for this U.S. Open is that Xander Schauffele, despite being among the favorites, will barely crack the top five. Schauffele has only managed three top-five finishes in majors since 2019 and exhibited signs of shakiness at The Memorial over the weekend. Consequently, the model suggests that there may be better value bets for the U.S. Open this year.
Underdogs and Value Bets
A notable mention from the model is Justin Thomas, with 35-1 odds, considered a strong contender to make a significant run at the title. Thomas made his major debut at Pinehurst in 2014 and has accumulated more major victories than anyone except Brooks Koepka since 2017. His recent eighth-place finish at the PGA Championship, combined with impressive statistics—10th in strokes gained around the green and top-20 in both total driving efficiency and strokes gained approach the green—positions him well for another ascent up the leaderboard at the U.S. Open.
The model is also keeping an eye on two golfers with odds of 20-1 or longer, suggesting they could make a strong run at the title. Alongside these, there are two triple-digit longshots in its best bets, which could yield substantial returns for those willing to take the gamble.
Conclusion
As the 124th U.S. Open approaches, the excitement and anticipation are palpable. With a roster laden with talent and potential, Pinehurst No. 2 will undoubtedly witness some remarkable golf. Whether it's the favorites like Scheffler and Schauffele, the consistent ace Morikawa, or the underdog story of Justin Thomas, the tournament is set to be a thrilling spectacle for all golf aficionados.