Pinehurst No. 2 Set to Host 2024 U.S. Open: Key Players and Predictions
Pinehurst No. 2 in North Carolina is once again set to be the grand stage for the U.S. Open 2024, commencing this Thursday. Known for its challenging layout and storied history, Pinehurst promises an exciting tournament where the world's best golfers will vie for one of golf's most prestigious championships.
The Elite Contenders
The tournament features a stellar lineup, including top-ranked players like Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Xander Schauffele. Leading the charge, Scottie Scheffler comes in as the 11-4 favorite. Not only is he favored by the odds, but his consistent performance has also made him the world's No. 1-ranked golfer. With seven top-two finishes in his last eight tournaments, Scheffler's form indicates that he will be a force to reckon with.
Rory McIlroy, always a crowd favorite, will also be in the hunt, while Xander Schauffele, despite having a mixed bag of performances lately, is predicted by DFS pro Mike McClure's model to barely crack the top five. Schauffele has managed only three top-five finishes in majors since 2019, and his inconsistency at The Memorial, where he shot two rounds of 73 or higher, may be a concern for his fans.
Value Bets and Longshots
Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, both at 125-1 odds, are considered longshots for this year's U.S. Open. While Tiger Woods' illustrious career speaks for itself, his recent form and fitness levels pose significant questions. Similarly, Mickelson, another titan of the golf world, appears to be past his prime, although his experience could still make him a dark horse.
An intriguing prospect is Justin Thomas, a 35-1 longshot. Despite these long odds, McClure's model suggests that Thomas could make a strong run at the title. Thomas finished T-8 at the PGA Championship in May and boasts an impressive career with 15 PGA Tour event wins and nearly $58 million in earnings. With an 81% cut-making rate and a current ranking of 14th in the FedEx Cup standings, Thomas is poised to surprise many.
McClure's Model: A Proven Predictor
DFS pro Mike McClure's proprietary model has been exceptionally accurate since June 2020, earning nearly $9,000 on its best bets. This model has accurately predicted multiple wins for Scottie Scheffler, including the 2024 Masters, Arnold Palmer Invitational, and The Players Championship. Additionally, it recommended a winning bet on Hideki Matsuyama for the 2024 Genesis Invitational at +9000 odds and correctly predicted Jon Rahm's victories at the 2023 Sentry Tournament of Champions and The American Express. Remarkably, the model also foresaw Rahm's second major win at the 2023 Masters.
The model's predictions have been accurate for 12 majors leading into the weekend, including the last three Masters and the 2024 PGA Championship. For the upcoming U.S. Open, it offers insights that Schauffele may struggle to break into the top five, while Justin Thomas could be a compelling pick at his current odds.
Fans and Bettors Gear Up
As the U.S. Open 2024 unfolds at Pinehurst No. 2, fans and bettors will be watching closely. Scheffler aims to continue his dominance, and many eyes will be on how he handles the challenging course. Rory McIlroy and Xander Schauffele will also be under scrutiny, with both having points to prove. Meanwhile, longshots like Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson add a layer of intrigue and nostalgia to the event.
Before placing any bets or setting PGA DFS lineups on platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel, it is worth considering the insights provided by Mike McClure's model. As history has shown, McClure's model has a unique knack for identifying both favorites and value bets, making it a vital resource for serious bettors.
In summary, the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2 promises high drama, intense competition, and possibly a few surprises. With a mix of seasoned champions and emerging talents, golfing enthusiasts are in for a treat. As the first tee time approaches, the excitement builds, setting the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable tournament.