Excitement Builds for the 124th U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2
Excitement Builds for the 124th U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2
In what is set to be an electrifying showdown, the 124th U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2 is capturing the attention of golf enthusiasts worldwide. This prestigious tournament features the year’s two major winners, Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele, both of whom have already cemented their prowess in the golf world.
Top Contenders: Scheffler, Schauffele, and Morikawa
Among the leading figures, Collin Morikawa stands out. Known for his consistency and precision, Morikawa has secured top-five finishes in both the Masters and the PGA Championship this year. Entering the 2024 U.S. Open with a hot streak, having achieved top-five finishes in his last three tournaments, Morikawa is in prime form. A victory at Pinehurst would mark a significant milestone in his career, allowing him to complete 75% of his career Grand Slam—an achievement few golfers have managed.
Morikawa is one of seven golfers with odds under 15-1 in the current 2024 U.S. Open betting pool. Other formidable contenders include Scheffler at 11-4, Schauffele at 10-1, Bryson DeChambeau at 10-1, and Ludvig Aberg at 14-1. These odds reflect the intense competition and high stakes awaiting the players.
Predictive Model Insights
A predictive model, developed by McClure, has shown impressive accuracy since the PGA Tour resumed in June 2020. The model has accrued nearly $9,000 in best bets earnings since the restart, making it a reliable resource for bettors. It has accurately predicted numerous tournament outcomes, notably forecasting 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.
The model has a proven track record in predicting major wins, having correctly called 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 fortified its reputation for accuracy.
Predictions for Schauffele and Other Best Bets
One of the model's top predictions is that Xander Schauffele, despite being among the favorites, will barely crack the top five at the U.S. Open. Schauffele has managed only three top-five finishes in majors since 2019 and exhibited shakiness at The Memorial over the weekend. The model, therefore, suggests that there are better value bets for this year’s U.S. Open.
A notable mention from the model is Justin Thomas, who at 35-1 odds, is considered a strong contender to make a significant run at the title. Thomas made his major debut at Pinehurst in 2014 and has since accumulated more major victories than anyone except Brooks Koepka since 2017. His recent eighth-place finish at the PGA Championship and impressive statistics—10th in strokes gained around the green, and top-20 in both total driving efficiency and strokes gained approach the green—position him well for another climb up the leaderboard at the U.S. Open.
Longshots and Value Bets
The model is also eyeing 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 a gamble. The model’s success at predicting outcomes and identifying under-the-radar players makes it a valuable tool for bettors looking to capitalize on insights that extend beyond the obvious front-runners.
As the 124th U.S. Open unfolds at Pinehurst No. 2, all eyes will be on the fairways and greens, as golf’s best compete for one of the sport’s most coveted titles. The predictions, odds, and player form suggest that we are in for a thrilling tournament filled with suspense and high drama.
