Exciting Showdown at Pinehurst No. 2 for the 124th U.S. Open
The 124th U.S. Open is poised to deliver an electrifying spectacle at Pinehurst No. 2, attracting the keen attention of golf enthusiasts around the globe. Leading the field are this year’s two major winners: Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele, both of whom have made significant strides in their careers.
Top Contenders: Morikawa, Scheffler, and Schauffele
Collin Morikawa, known for his consistency and precision, is coming into the 2024 U.S. Open on a hot streak. Morikawa has secured top-five finishes in his last three tournaments, including the Masters and PGA Championship. A victory at Pinehurst would mean completing 75% of his career Grand Slam, a feat achieved by only a select few golfers. Morikawa is among the seven golfers who have odds under 15-1 in the current 2024 U.S. Open betting, a testament to his form and potential.
Joining Morikawa early in the betting are Scottie Scheffler at 11-4 and Xander Schauffele at 10-1. Both golfers have already achieved major victories this year, establishing themselves as formidable contenders. Other notable names include Bryson DeChambeau and Ludvig Aberg, both at 10-1 and 14-1 respectively, reflecting the fierce competition and high stakes awaiting all participants.
McClure's Predictive Model: A Proven Resource
McClure’s predictive model has been on an outstanding run since the PGA Tour resumed in June 2020, accumulating nearly $9,000 in best bets earnings. The model has accurately forecasted numerous tournament outcomes, notably predicting Scheffler's victories at the 2024 Masters, Arnold Palmer Invitational, and The Players Championship. Additionally, the model successfully tipped Hideki Matsuyama for the 2024 Genesis Invitational at remarkable +9000 odds.
The model's reputation for accuracy is further solidified by correctly predicting Jon Rahm's wins 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, McClure’s model stands as a reliable resource for bettors.
Schauffele: Potential vs. Prediction
One of the model's top predictions for the U.S. Open is that Xander Schauffele, despite being among the favorites, will barely crack the top five. Schauffele has managed just three top-five finishes in majors since 2019, showcasing some inconsistency. His recent performance at The Memorial also raised questions, suggesting there might be better value bets for this year's U.S. Open.
Underdogs with Potential
Among the notable mentions from the model is Justin Thomas, currently at 35-1 odds. 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, coupled with 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.
The model is also eyeing two golfers with odds of 20-1 or longer, suggesting they could make significant runs at the title. Additionally, there are two triple-digit longshots in its best bets, offering substantial returns for those willing to take a gamble on these less likely contenders.
Quotes
"In fact, the model is up almost $9,000 on its best bets since the restart, nailing tournament after tournament."
"Rahm was two strokes off the lead heading into the third round, but the model still projected him as the winner."
"With top-15s in half of his 12 starts this year on tour, Thomas could make another run up the 2024 U.S. Open leaderboard."
As the 124th U.S. Open unfolds at Pinehurst No. 2, the high stakes, intense competition, and potential for upsets ensure an event filled with thrilling moments for golfers and fans alike. Stay tuned as the world's best tee off for an unforgettable showdown.