The USPGA Championship, often called the PGA Championship, is among golf’s most prestigious events. As one of the four major championships in professional golf, it has a storied history that dates back to 1916.
Initially established by the Professional Golfers’ Association of America, the tournament has seen some of the sport’s most iconic moments and legendary champions, from Walter Hagen and Jack Nicklaus to Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy.
The PGA Championship is unique in its commitment to professional golfers. While other majors invite leading amateurs to participate, the PGA is reserved almost exclusively for the pros. This exclusivity has made it a coveted title and a test of professional mettle.
As we approach the 2024 edition of the championship, the golfing world is abuzz with speculation and excitement. Let’s delve into this year’s tournament’s favourites, predictions, and betting opportunities.
Odds & Favorites for the 2024 USPGA
| Player | Odds |
|---|---|
| Scottie Scheffler | 8/1 |
| Jon Rahm | 10/1 |
| Rory McIlroy | 10/1 |
| Brooks Koepka | 11/1 |
| Patrick Cantlay | 20/1 |
| Xander Schauffele | 20/1 |
| Viktor Hovland | 25/1 |
| Cameron Smith | 25/1 |
| Justin Thomas | 28/1 |
| Collin Morikawa | 28/1 |
| Dustin Johnson | 30/1 |
| Jordan Spieth | 30/1 |
| Tony Finau | 33/1 |
| Max Homa | 35/1 |
| Jason Day | 40/1 |
| Tyrrell Hatton | 40/1 |
| Cameron Young | 40/1 |
| Min Woo Lee | 40/1 |
| Matt Fitzpatrick | 40/1 |
| Sungjae Im | 40/1 |
| Hideki Matsuyama | 45/1 |
| Tommy Fleetwood | 50/1 |
| Rickie Fowler | 50/1 |
| Shane Lowry | 50/1 |
| Bryson Dechambeau | 60/1 |
| Justin Rose | 60/1 |
| Joohyung Kim | 60/1 |
| Corey Conners | 66/1 |
| Brian Harman | 66/1 |
| Sam Burns | 66/1 |
| Wyndham Clark | 70/1 |
| Patrick Reed | 70/1 |
| Sahith Theegala | 80/1 |
| Joaquin Niemann | 80/1 |
| Adam Scott | 80/1 |
| Keegan Bradley | 100/1 |
| Daniel Berger | 100/1 |
| Ryan Fox | 100/1 |
| Talor Gooch | 100/1 |
| Tiger Woods | 125/1 |
| Abraham Ancer | 125/1 |
| Harris English | 125/1 |
| Thomas Pieters | 125/1 |
| Gary Woodland | 125/1 |
| Keith Mitchell | 125/1 |
| Si Woo Kim | 125/1 |
| Aaron Wise | 150/1 |
| Adam Hadwin | 150/1 |
| Christiaan Bezuidenhout | 150/1 |
| Davis Riley | 150/1 |
| Harold Varner III | 150/1 |
| J.T Poston | 150/1 |
| Jason Kokrak | 150/1 |
| Kurt Kitayama | 150/1 |
| Louis Oosthuizen | 150/1 |
| Mito Pereira | 150/1 |
| Russell Henley | 150/1 |
| Seamus Power | 150/1 |
| Sergio Garcia | 150/1 |
| Denny McCarthy | 175/1 |
| Francesco Molinari | 200/1 |
| Joel Dahmen | 200/1 |
| Sepp Straka | 200/1 |
| Marc Leishman | 200/1 |
| Phil Mickelson | 200/1 |
| Robert Macintyre | 200/1 |
*Odds from Betfred, updated 14/08/23
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Predictions
When the PGA Championship last graced Valhalla, Rory McIlroy narrowly beat Phil Mickelson, clinching victory by a mere stroke. Given Rory’s remarkable consistency in major tournaments over the past two years, including Top-10 placements in the recent two editions of this championship, it’s a strong prediction that he’s poised for another standout performance at Valhalla. Considering you can still get 10/1 on Rory with many online bookmakers, a cheeky each-way bet on the Northern Irishman might be worth consideration.
Despite the course’s challenges, Scottie Scheffler is a consistent contender at major tournaments. He secured a commendable second place, trailing Brooks Koepka at Oak Hill in 2023, and subsequently clinched third at the U.S. Open. While his streak of top-tier finishes in 2023 might not last forever, Scheffler remains a prime candidate for the win at Valhalla.
Each-Way Betting on the USPGA Championship
One of this event’s most popular and potentially profitable betting strategies is each-way betting. Let’s delve into how each-way betting works and why it’s particularly enticing for this championship.
Understanding Each-Way Betting
Each-way betting essentially splits your stake into two separate bets: one for your chosen player to win and the other for them to finish in one of the top places. This means you can still see a return on your bet even if your player doesn’t clinch the title but finishes within the top 5 or 6 (depending on the bookmaker’s terms).
Why Each-Way Betting is Attractive for the USPGA Championship
Depth of Field: The USPGA Championship boasts a deep and talented field. With so many potential winners, predicting the outright victor can be challenging. Each-way betting allows you to hedge your bets.
Generous Payouts: Many bookmakers offer generous terms for each-way bets on this tournament, often paying out for players who finish in the top 5 or 6. This increases the chances of seeing a return on your stake.
Course Challenges: The unpredictable nature of golf courses, like the Valhalla Golf Club, means even top players can have off days. Each-way betting provides a safety net, ensuring that a sudden twist in the tournament doesn’t leave you empty-handed.
Strategies for Each-Way Betting on the USPGA
Research Player Form: Look at recent performances, especially in major tournaments. Players in good form or those who’ve historically performed well at the USPGA are solid each-way bet choices.
Course Suitability: Some players excel on specific courses. Research past performances at the Valhalla Golf Club or similar courses to identify players who might have an edge.
Check Bookmaker Terms: Before placing your bet, ensure you’re clear on the terms. Some bookmakers might offer payouts for the top 5, while others might extend to the top 6 or even further.
Value Picks: Instead of just focusing on the favourites, consider players with longer odds who’ve been performing well recently. These players can offer significant value in each-way bets.
Each-way betting on the USPGA Championship offers a balanced approach, blending the potential for high rewards with a safety net. By researching and choosing your bets wisely, you can maximize your profit potential and enjoy the thrill of the championship even more.
2024 USPGA Course, Valhalla Golf Club:
Nestled in Louisville, Kentucky, the Valhalla Golf Club is a testament to golfing excellence. Designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus and opened in 1986, this private club has been the backdrop to some of golf’s most memorable moments.
Course Overview:
- Location: 15503 Shelbyville Road, Louisville, Kentucky
- Established: 1986
- Type: Private
- Ownership: Initially owned by Valhalla Golf Partners, LLC, the club saw a change in ownership in June 2022. It was acquired by a group of club members led by Jimmy Kirchdorfer, CEO of ISCO Industries. Other notable members of this group include former Yum! Brands CEO David Novak, businessman and ex-NBA player Junior Bridgeman, and hotelier Chester Musselman.
- Total Holes: 18
- Par: 72
- Length: 7,458 yards (6,820 m)
- Course Rating: 76.4
- Slope Rating: 148
- Website: valhallagolfclub.com
Historical Highlights
PGA Championship: Valhalla has been a favoured venue for the PGA Championship, hosting it in 1996, 2000, 2014, and the upcoming 2024 edition.
Ryder Cup: In 2008, Valhalla was the battleground for the Ryder Cup, where the United States clinched a victory against Europe.
Senior PGA Championship: The club has also hosted the Senior PGA Championship in 2004 and 2011.
Notable Moments
The 1996 PGA Championship saw Mark Brooks clinch his only major title in a playoff, with Franklin native Kenny Perry as the runner-up.
The 2000 PGA Championship was another nail-biter, with Tiger Woods edging out Bob May in a playoff. This win was a part of Woods’ iconic “Tiger Slam”.
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The 2014 PGA Championship witnessed Rory McIlroy narrowly defeating Phil Mickelson.
Course Legacy: The Valhalla Golf Club was the brainchild of local business leader Dwight Gahm and his three sons. Envisioned in 1981, it took five years for the dream to materialize. The course sprawls across a vast 486-acre property on Shelbyville Road, just outside the Gene Snyder Freeway.
The club has undergone significant modernizations over the years, including a major overhaul after the 2011 Senior PGA Championship, which saw the rebuilding of all 18 greens.
Valhalla is not just a golf course; it’s a piece of golfing history. As we approach the 2024 PGA Championship, players and fans alike can look forward to another chapter in Valhalla’s storied legacy.
The Legacy of the USPGA Championship
The USPGA Championship, one of golf’s four major tournaments, is a test of skill, endurance, and a journey through the annals of golfing history.
Established in 1916, the championship has witnessed the evolution of the sport, its players, and the essence of competitive golf.
Origins and Early Days: The inception of the USPGA Championship was driven by the Professional Golfers’ Association of America. Unlike other tournaments, the PGA Championship was initially a match-play event, a format that lasted until 1958. The early years saw legends like Walter Hagen, who clinched the title five times in the 1920s, setting the gold standard for professional golf.
Transition to Stroke Play: 1958 marked a significant shift for the championship as it transitioned from match play to the now-familiar stroke play format. This change was instrumental in shaping the modern character of the tournament and attracting a broader audience.
Iconic Moments: The PGA Championship has been the stage for some of golf’s most unforgettable moments over the decades. Who could forget Jack Nicklaus’s fifth PGA title in 1980, solidifying his place as one of the game’s greats? Or the dramatic 2000 championship where Tiger Woods outdueled Bob May in a playoff, showcasing skill and unparalleled determination?
The Wanamaker Trophy: Named after Rodman Wanamaker, who played a pivotal role in establishing the Professional Golfers’ Association of America, the Wanamaker Trophy is one of the heaviest trophies in professional sports. It symbolises victory and a testament to a player’s ability to etch their name alongside the game’s legends.
Modern Era and Globalization: Today, the USPGA Championship is truly a global event. With players hailing from all corners of the world, it’s a testament to the universal appeal of golf. Recent champions like Rory McIlroy, Brooks Koepka, and Collin Morikawa underscore the diversity and depth of talent in the modern game.
The USPGA Championship is more than just a tournament; it’s a living chronicle of golf’s rich history. As we anticipate the 2024 edition, we don’t just look forward to the competition but also the continuation of a legacy that spans over a century.
