As the calendar turns, the golfing world sets its sights on the major championships of 2024, where the venues are as venerable as they are challenging. This year's lineup includes the iconic Masters, the PGA Championship returning to Valhalla, the U.S. Open at the storied Pinehurst, and The Open at the historic Royal Troon. Amid the backdrop of these legendary courses, there's a palpable sense of anticipation that this could be the year we see at least one golfer break through to claim their first major championship victory.
The Favorites and First-Timers
At the forefront of the discussion is none other than Scottie Scheffler, who enters the year as the favorite to capture a major title. With odds standing at a compelling +125, Scheffler's exceptional form—highlighted by a season devoid of any over-par round—makes him a formidable contender across the board. Indeed, his odds to secure the lowest aggregate score across all four majors sit enticingly at +350. Specifically, at the Masters, he is viewed with particular favor, with odds of +400 signaling strong confidence in his chances.
Moreover, the possibility of Scheffler not only winning a major but claiming two titles within the year has intrigued many, with odds at +800. Demonstrating his consistency, the odds makers are also favoring Scheffler to make the cut in all four majors, reflected in odds of -175.
Despite the spotlight on Scheffler, the narrative around first-time major winners adds an exciting layer to the championship season. With 156 golfers breaking through to win their first major in the past 78 years, history suggests we might witness a new champion emerge. The list of potential candidates is impressive, featuring Viktor Hovland, Will Zalatoris, Xander Schauffele, Ludvig Åberg, Patrick Cantlay, and Max Homa. These players, each with their unique strengths, add an unpredictable twist to the competitions ahead.
Betting Beyond the Winner's Circle
The intrigue around the majors doesn't stop with predicting the winner. The betting landscape offers a variety of unique propositions that capture the imagination of fans and bettors alike. For those looking beyond the traditional bets, odds are available on scenarios such as whether any of the majors in 2024 will conclude without the need for a playoff, posted at +150. Similarly, the possibility of any player claiming two or more major titles this year is also rated at +150.
The prospects of an English player lifting a major trophy stand at +200, while the odds for either Cantlay or Schauffele to emerge victorious are slightly higher at +225. For those believing in the magic of aces, the odds of witnessing a hole-in-one in all four majors are a tantalizing +600. And for the ultimate dreamers, the possibility of a player achieving the Grand Slam in 2024—a feat of winning all four majors in a calendar year—is a long shot at +8000.
Consistency Across Majors
The conversation around the majors often celebrates the winners, but consistent excellence across all four tournaments is a remarkable achievement in its own right. Rickie Fowler in 2014 and Jordan Spieth in 2015 are prime examples, both finishing in the top five of all four majors in those respective years. In this vein, Scottie Scheffler's odds to finish in the top 20 of all four majors this season stand at +150, underscoring the expectation of his continued consistency and competitiveness at the highest level.
As the golfing world braces for the excitement and drama of the 2024 major championships, the blend of seasoned champions and hungry challengers promises to deliver unforgettable moments. With venues steeped in history and a field brimming with talent and ambition, this championship season is poised to be one for the ages. Whether witnessing the triumph of a first-time winner or the continued dominance of established stars like Scottie Scheffler, the path to glory is wide open, adding an electrifying anticipation to every swing, putt, and round in the year ahead.
