Anticipating the Drama at Pinehurst No. 2: The 124th U.S. Open
The storied grounds of Pinehurst No. 2 are set to host the 124th U.S. Open, drawing immense attention from the golf world. With top-tier talents and thrilling storylines, this year's tournament promises a spectacle for enthusiasts and bettors alike.
Top Contenders in the Spotlight
Leading the charge at this year’s U.S. Open are Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele, both of whom have already etched their names into the annals of golf history with major wins this year. Scheffler, with an impressive 11-4 odds, and Schauffele, standing strong at 10-1, are among the frontrunners, aiming to add another major to their resumes.
Collin Morikawa is another name that stands out. Known for his consistency and precision, Morikawa has notched top-five finishes in both the Masters and the PGA Championship this year. Entering the U.S. Open on a hot streak, having secured top-five finishes in his last three tournaments, a win at Pinehurst could place him three-quarters of the way to completing a career Grand Slam—a rare and prestigious achievement in the sport.
Also in the mix are formidable players like Bryson DeChambeau, at 10-1 odds, and Ludvig Aberg, with 14-1 odds, reflecting the high stakes and intense competition that await. These talented golfers vie for glory in what is shaping up to be a fiercely contested battle.
Breaking Down the Betting Landscape
According to McClure’s predictive model, which has been remarkably accurate since the PGA Tour's resumption in June 2020, there are some strategic insights for bettors. The model has amassed nearly $9,000 in best bets earnings since then, enhancing its credibility as a reliable resource.
With a series of accurate predictions, such as Scheffler’s victories at the 2024 Masters, Arnold Palmer Invitational, and The Players Championship, and a successful +9000 bet on Hideki Matsuyama at the 2024 Genesis Invitational, the model has built a solid reputation. Its accuracy extends to 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 successfully nailed, clients regularly turn to the model for betting guidance.
Schauffele's Prospects: Concerns and Predictions
Among the model’s top predictions for the U.S. Open is a surprising outlook on Xander Schauffele. Despite being one of the favorites, the model anticipates Schauffele will just crack the top five, largely based on his performance history. Since 2019, Schauffele has managed only three top-five finishes in majors, coupled with a shaky performance at The Memorial Tournament over the recent weekend. Thus, the model suggests seeking better value bets for this year's showdown.
Justin Thomas: A Dark Horse
One notable mention from the model is Justin Thomas, who comes in at 35-1 odds. Known for his major debut at Pinehurst in 2014, Thomas has since achieved more major victories than anyone except Brooks Koepka since 2017. His eighth-place finish at this year's PGA Championship, combined with robust stats—10th in strokes gained around the green and top-20 in both total driving efficiency and strokes gained approach the green—positions him as a strong contender for another significant run at Pinehurst.
Longshots Worth Watching
The model isn't just focusing on the top favorites, though. It has its eye on two golfers with odds of 20-1 or longer, suggesting they could make substantial runs at the title. Furthermore, there are two triple-digit longshots in its best bets that could yield substantial returns for those willing to take a calculated gamble.
The 124th U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2 promises to be a thrilling competition with high stakes, intense rivalries, and the unpredictability that defines major golf tournaments. Fans and bettors alike should brace themselves for what could be one of the most exciting Opens in recent history.