Excitement Builds for the 124th U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2
Golf enthusiasts around the world are gearing up for the 124th U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2, an event that promises to be an exciting showdown. Leading the charge are this year’s two major winners, Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele, both of whom have already made significant strides in their careers.
The Contenders
Collin Morikawa, a name synonymous with consistency and precision, is another top contender. Morikawa 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 with odds under 15-1 in the current 2024 U.S. Open betting, joining formidable competitors such as Scheffler at 11-4, Schauffele at 10-1, Bryson DeChambeau at 10-1, and Ludvig Aberg at 14-1. These odds reflect the intense competition and high stakes awaiting the players.
McClure's Predictive Model
Much attention has also been drawn to McClure’s predictive model, a resource that has proven highly reliable for bettors since the PGA Tour resumed in June 2020. The model has amassed nearly $9,000 in best bets earnings since the restart, consistently accurately predicting numerous tournament outcomes. Notably, it foresaw 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 with a remarkable +9000 bet. Its knack for predicting major wins is evident: it 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.
Notable Predictions
One of the model's top predictions is that Xander Schauffele, despite being one of 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. 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, combined 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.
Longshot Predictions
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, it identifies two triple-digit longshots in its best bets, which could yield substantial returns for those willing to take the gamble. The model's historical accuracy adds a layer of credibility to these predictions, making them intriguing prospects for bettors.
Conclusion
As the 124th U.S. Open approaches, the excitement and anticipation are palpable. With a field filled with top-tier talent and a predictive model that continues to impress, golf fans have much to look forward to. Whether it's the established stars like Scheffler, Schauffele, and Morikawa or the dark horse candidates identified by the model, Pinehurst No. 2 is set to host a memorable tournament. As the players prepare to tee off, all eyes will be on the fairways and greens, ready to witness the drama and triumphs that define the U.S. Open.