Golf's Major Championship Season 2024: Predictions and Odds
As the 2024 major championships approach, the golf world turns its eager attention toward the Masters, the PGA Championship at Valhalla, the U.S. Open at Pinehurst, and The Open at Royal Troon. Amidst this anticipation, predictions and odds are swirling, particularly around the potential for a first-time major winner to emerge. With 156 golfers having claimed their first major in the last 78 years, history suggests that we could very well see new stars ascend to the pinnacle of golfing glory this year.
Scottie Scheffler: A Favorite in Focus
Leading the conversation is Scottie Scheffler, whose odds of clinching a major stand at an impressive +125. His track record for the season adds weight to this speculation, with Scheffler maintaining an extraordinary streak of no over-par rounds. Given his form, Scheffler is also the top pick for the lowest aggregate score across all four majors, with odds set at +350.
At the upcoming Masters, Scheffler's odds sit at +400, reflecting a strong confidence in his potential victory. If one were to bet on Scheffler snagging two major titles this year, the odds currently stand at +800, showcasing the high expectations surrounding his performance. Moreover, the probability of Scheffler making the cut in all four majors is favored at -175.
The Hunt for First-Time Major Winners
The prospect of witnessing a golfer claim their first major title adds an exhilarating layer of suspense to the championship season. With only four seasons since World War II not producing a first-time major winner, the odds are favorable for seeing one or more golfers achieving this milestone in 2024. Among those in the running are Viktor Hovland, Will Zalatoris, Xander Schauffele, Ludvig Åberg, Patrick Cantlay, and Max Homa. Each of these players brings a unique set of skills to the course, setting the stage for what promises to be a fiercely competitive series of tournaments.
Beyond Winner Predictions: Unique Betting Odds
In addition to the traditional bets on who will clinch the titles, there are a series of unique betting opportunities that add an extra dimension to the major championships. For instance, the odds that no major in 2024 will be decided by a playoff stand at +150, while the possibility of any player winning two or more majors this year also sits at +150. An English player winning a major has odds of +200, reflecting the depth of talent within the pool of contenders from England.
A particularly interesting bet revolves around whether Patrick Cantlay or Xander Schauffele will win a major, with odds at +225. The rarity of a hole-in-one happening in all four majors is reflected in odds of +600, highlighting the exceptional skill required to achieve this feat. Meanwhile, the dream of a player achieving the Grand Slam in 2024 is a long shot, with odds at +8000.
Historical Context and Scheffler’s Top 20 Odds
The pursuit of major titles is not just about the immediate victory but also about leaving a mark on the history of the sport. Players like Rickie Fowler and Jordan Spieth, who finished in the top five of all four majors in 2014 and 2015 respectively, have set benchmarks for consistency at the highest level. For Scottie Scheffler, the odds to finish in the top 20 of all four majors this season are pegged at +150, suggesting a strong belief in his capacity to deliver steady, top-tier performances across the board.
As the 2024 major championships draw closer, the blend of established champions and emerging contenders promises a thrilling narrative. Whether it be through the crowning of first-time winners, the achievement of rare feats, or the consistent excellence of favorites like Scottie Scheffler, this year’s tournaments are poised to write a compelling chapter in the storied history of golf.
