Excitement Builds for the 124th U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2
In what promises to be an exciting showdown at Pinehurst No. 2, the 124th U.S. Open is set to tee off, drawing considerable attention from golf enthusiasts around the world. Leading the charge are this year's two major winners, Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele, who have already made significant strides in their careers.
Key Contenders: Scheffler and Schauffele
Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele have been the focal points this season, each securing major victories that have solidified their status as top contenders. Scheffler, currently at the forefront with odds of 11-4, has showcased exceptional form. Schauffele, with odds set at 10-1, remains a formidable opponent despite recent inconsistencies.
The Consistent Collin Morikawa
Collin Morikawa, a name synonymous with consistency and precision, has carded top-five finishes in both the Masters and the PGA Championship. Entering the 2024 U.S. Open, Morikawa is on a hot streak, having secured top-five finishes in his last three tournaments. With a victory at Pinehurst, he can complete 75% of his career Grand Slam, a feat only a few golfers have achieved. Morikawa is among seven golfers who have odds under 15-1 in the current 2024 U.S. Open betting.
Other notable players with competitive odds include Bryson DeChambeau at 10-1 and Ludvig Aberg at 14-1. These odds reflect the intense competition and high stakes awaiting the players at Pinehurst.
The Predictive Power of McClure's Model
McClure's predictive model has been on a tear since the PGA Tour resumed in June 2020. It has accrued nearly $9,000 in best bets earnings since the restart, making it a reliable resource for bettors. The model has accurately foreseen numerous tournament outcomes, notably predicting 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. Its knack for predicting major wins is evident, 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. 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 just three top-five finishes in majors since 2019 and exhibited shakiness at The Memorial over the weekend. The model, therefore, suggests there are better value bets for this year's U.S. Open.
The Underdog: Justin Thomas
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 to Watch
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 the gamble.
Conclusion
As the 124th U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2 approaches, the excitement and anticipation among golf fans are palpable. With top contenders like Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele, and Collin Morikawa, alongside strong bets like Justin Thomas and potential longshot surprises, this year's tournament promises to be a thrilling spectacle. McClure's model, with its impressive track record, will undoubtedly play a crucial role in guiding bettors through the high-stakes action.
In the world of golf, where precision and perseverance reign supreme, the U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2 is set to be another unforgettable chapter. May the best golfer triumph in what is sure to be an exhilarating competition.