A Star-Studded Clash Awaits at Pinehurst: Previewing the 124th U.S. Open
The storied Pinehurst No. 2 course sets the stage for what promises to be a riveting showdown at the 124th U.S. Open. This year's iteration of the tournament has golf enthusiasts around the world buzzing with anticipation.
Top Contenders and Major Winners
Leading the charge this year are Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele, both of whom have already marked significant milestones in their careers with major wins. Scheffler, ranked among the world's elite, boasts an impressive resume that includes victories at the 2024 Masters, the Arnold Palmer Invitational, and The Players Championship. His consistency and skill making him a formidable contender.
Schauffele, equally dominant, enters the tournament with high expectations. Though he has managed only three top-five finishes in majors since 2019, his presence among the favorites is indisputable.
Morikawa’s Hot Streak
Adding to the excitement is Collin Morikawa, who is renowned for his consistency and precision. Morikawa has been in a red-hot form, having secured top-five finishes in both the Masters and the PGA Championship. Entering the 2024 U.S. Open, he brings a streak of three consecutive top-five finishes.
With a potential victory at Pinehurst, Morikawa stands to achieve 75% of his career Grand Slam, a rare feat accomplished by only a select few golfers. Notably, he is among seven golfers with odds under 15-1 in the current 2024 U.S. Open betting, sharing the spotlight with contenders like Scheffler at 11-4, Schauffele at 10-1, Bryson DeChambeau at 10-1, and Ludvig Aberg at 14-1. These tight odds reflect the high stakes and the fierce competition awaiting the players.
Predictive Model’s Track Record
One tool that has piqued the interest of many bettors is McClure’s predictive model. Having been on a commendable run since the PGA Tour resumed in June 2020, the model has accrued nearly $9,000 in best bets earnings. Its reliability is underscored by its accurate predictions of numerous tournament outcomes.
Notably, the model foresaw Scheffler's victories at the 2024 Masters, Arnold Palmer Invitational, and The Players Championship. It also successfully tipped Hideki Matsuyama for the 2024 Genesis Invitational with an astounding +9000 bet. Its knack for predicting major wins is evident, having correctly called Jon Rahm's triumphs, including his second career major at the 2023 Masters.
With a total of 12 major predictions nailed, including the last three Masters and the 2024 PGA Championship, this model has fortified its reputation for accuracy.
Top Predictions and Value Bets
Among the top predictions by the model is that Xander Schauffele, despite being a favorite, will barely crack the top five at the U.S. Open. Given his inconsistent performance, including his recent shakiness at The Memorial, the model suggests bettors should look for better value bets.
One such value bet is Justin Thomas, who stands at enticing 35-1 odds. Making his major debut at Pinehurst in 2014, Thomas has since amassed 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.
The model is also eyeing two golfers with odds of 20-1 or longer, suggesting they could make a strong run at the title. Additionally, there are two triple-digit longshots in its best bets, which could yield substantial returns for those willing to take a gamble.
Quotes from the Model
"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 sets to tee off, all eyes will be on the showdown at Pinehurst, where the world's best golfers will meet in a test of skill, precision, and endurance. Whether you're a fan, a bettor, or a player, this year’s tournament promises to be a spectacle filled with drama and remarkable feats.