2024 U.S. Open picks, odds: Expert predictions, favorites to win from betting field at Pinehurst No. 2
As the U.S. Open returns to Pinehurst No. 2 for the first time in a decade, anticipation is high among golf enthusiasts and analysts alike. This year marks the 124th edition of the prestigious national championship, promising an epic contest from the opening round on Thursday to the final moments on Sunday evening when the…
As the U.S. Open returns to Pinehurst No. 2 for the first time in a decade, anticipation is high among golf enthusiasts and analysts alike. This year marks the 124th edition of the prestigious national championship, promising an epic contest from the opening round on Thursday to the final moments on Sunday evening when the U.S. Open Championship Trophy is awarded.
The Leading Contenders
At the top of the field, three names stand out: Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele, and Rory McIlroy. These players have been dominating the golf world recently, making them the favorites going into the tournament. Scheffler, the hottest player right now, has won five of his last eight starts and claimed the first major of the year. Schauffele, fresh off his first major win, and McIlroy, who is seeking his first major title in a decade, are not far behind. While Scheffler is seen as the clear favorite, Schauffele and McIlroy form a formidable second tier above the rest of the field.
Joining this elite group are Collin Morikawa, a two-time major champion aiming for the third leg of his grand slam, and Bryson DeChambeau, who has had an impressive season with top finishes at both the Masters and the PGA Championship. Defending champion Wyndham Clark, despite an inconsistent year, holds the fourth spot in the Official World Golf Rankings and could make a strong showing at a course where he has previously excelled.
Notable Competitors
Beyond the top contenders, several players are expected to challenge for the title. Young talent Ludvig Åberg, along with established stars like Brooks Koepka, Max Homa, Sahith Theegala, and Viktor Hovland, all have the potential to make significant impacts. Among the veterans, Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson add an intriguing dynamic. Woods has not made the cut at the U.S. Open since 2019 and has struggled at majors over the past decade, while Mickelson, despite six runner-up finishes, has not performed well in recent U.S. Opens.
Expert Predictions
As the tournament approaches, CBS Sports experts have weighed in with their predictions and picks. Kyle Porter, a senior golf writer, predicts Scottie Scheffler will continue his incredible run and secure victory at Pinehurst. According to Porter, Scheffler’s mastery of his short game and course management will be crucial at Pinehurst, helping him to extend his remarkable season and cement his place in golf history.
Porter also identifies Will Zalatoris as a sleeper pick. Despite recent struggles, Zalatoris has two top-six finishes in his last three U.S. Opens and could be a surprise contender. Rory McIlroy is considered a top 10 lock due to his consistent performances at the U.S. Open and strong form in 2024. On the other hand, Viktor Hovland is seen as a potential disappointment due to his inconsistent short game, despite a strong showing at the PGA Championship.
Key Matchups and Predictions
In the battle among the top players, Porter predicts Scheffler will win, with McIlroy securing a top 10 finish and Schauffele slipping slightly after his recent major win. This pattern reflects the challenges of maintaining peak performance immediately following a major victory.
In the much-anticipated comparison between Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, Porter expects Woods to make the cut, relying on his strategic play and skillful hands to navigate Pinehurst. Mickelson, however, is not expected to thrive on this course and is predicted to miss the cut.
Surprises and Course Conditions
Porter also predicts that Pinehurst No. 2 will not play as tough as expected. While there are concerns about the fast and firm greens, he believes the USGA will not push the course to its limits, avoiding the extreme conditions seen in past tournaments.
Porter’s final predictions include a lowest round score of 65 (-5) and a winning score of 278 (-2), with the winner shooting an even-par 70 on Sunday.
Alternative Picks
Patrick McDonald, another CBS Sports golf writer, offers a different perspective, choosing Hideki Matsuyama as his pick to win. Matsuyama’s strength in approach and around-the-green play makes him a formidable contender at Pinehurst. McDonald also highlights Russell Henley as a sleeper pick due to his excellent recent form in key statistical areas.
McDonald agrees with the prediction of a strong showing from Xander Schauffele, citing his impressive record at the U.S. Open. He also suggests that reigning champion Wyndham Clark will struggle, noting his poor form in recent months.
In a head-to-head comparison among Scheffler, Schauffele, and McIlroy, McDonald sides with Scheffler, ranking Schauffele second and McIlroy third due to some weaknesses in his iron play.
Regarding the Woods vs. Mickelson matchup, McDonald echoes the sentiment that Woods will make the cut at Pinehurst, a course suited to his strategic strengths. Mickelson, on the other hand, is expected to struggle and miss the cut.
McDonald also predicts that this year will not see a first-time major winner, ending a five-year streak of maiden champions at the U.S. Open. He believes experienced major winners like Scheffler, Matsuyama, and Schauffele will dominate.
His final predictions include a lowest round score of 66 (-4) and a winning score of 278 (-2), with the winner also shooting an even-par 70 on Sunday.
Conclusion
As the U.S. Open returns to Pinehurst No. 2, all eyes are on the top contenders and the intriguing matchups that will unfold over the weekend. With Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele, and Rory McIlroy leading the field, and a host of talented players ready to challenge, this year’s tournament promises to be an exciting and memorable event. Whether it’s the familiar names rising to the occasion or unexpected players making their mark, the 2024 U.S. Open is set to deliver a thrilling chapter in golf history.