As golf enthusiasts focus on the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth Club in Surrey, England, attention is focused on one of the DP World Tour's most prestigious and lucrative tournaments. The event offers historical significance and a huge prize purse, cementing its place as a must-see on the tour. The 2024 edition brings top players from around the world, each vying for a share of the USD 9 million prize fund and the coveted winner's check of USD 1.53 million.
With the President's Cup approaching next week, this week provides an important opportunity for players to fine-tune their form and for bettors, a chance to measure the odds. Rory McIlroy, Tommy Fleetwood, and other top contenders are set to battle it out on this iconic course.
Rory McIlroy: Favorite to Win
Rory McIlroy, winner of the 2014 BMW PGA Championship, enters this year as the top contender, at odds of +610. Despite a few misses, his performance on both the PGA and DP World Tours this season has been impressive. McIlroy finished second in the Irish Open recently. While he was on the loose there, losing by a stroke to Rasmus Hojgaard, the Northern Irishman's form remains strong heading into this event.
His season was marked by significant highlights, including wins at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic and the Wells Fargo Championship. Additionally, McIlroy has maintained an impressive streak of top-five finishes at major tournaments, including his appearances at the Zurich Classic and several others on the PGA Tour.
Given McIlroy's ability to play under pressure and his familiarity with the Wentworth course, he stands a strong chance of adding his name to the list of golfers who have won the BMW PGA Championship multiple times. This list includes Nick Faldo, Seve Ballesteros, and Colin Montgomerie. Against +610, he is a strong player for buyers looking for a reliable competitor.
Adam Scott: Top-5 Finish in Sight
Australian veteran Adam Scott, with +275 odds to finish in the top 5, is the player to watch at this year's BMW PGA Championship. Scott, competing in his 11th Presidents Cup next week, is still chasing his first tournament win since the 2020 Genesis Invitational. While a win may have taken him by surprise recently, his recent form shows he is set to finish strong at Wentworth.
Scott showed remarkable consistency in the closing stages of the PGA Tour season, finishing second in the BMW Championship and tied for fourth in the TOUR Championship. His consistent performance makes him a tough contender for a top-5 finish this week.
For fans who want to place a bet, there are many options, including betting on the end of 5. They can use the sleeper promo code to take advantage of exciting betting opportunities on Scott and other golfers.
Aaron Rai: Ready for Another Strong Run
Aaron Rai, a rising star in professional golf, is one of the most interesting players to watch this week. Rai's +200 odds to finish in the top 10 reflect his recent performances and local ties as he returns to familiar territory in England. He finished second in the BMW PGA tournament last year, missing out on the titles.
Rai has been a standout on the PGA Tour this year, highlighted by his win at the Wyndham tournament. He also had five top-five finishes, including at the Rocket Mortgage Classic and the Genesis Scottish Open.
Now back on home soil, Rai will use his knowledge of the course and the English crowd to support him. His form and determination make him a strong contender for a top ten finish.
Billy Horschel: Strong Bet for Top-20 Finish
Billy Horschel may not be one of the heavy favorites, but his familiarity with the Wentworth course makes him a solid choice for a top-20 finish. The American has a unique relationship with the BMW PGA Championship, winning it in 2021 and becoming only the second American to do so. Horschel's odds of +110 to finish in the top 20 make him a great pick for those looking for consensus instead of unpredictability.
Since winning in 2021, Horschel has continued to excel at the BMW PGA Championship, finishing tied for ninth in 2022 and tied for 18th last year. While he may not be expected to take home the trophy this time, Horschel's track record at Wentworth suggests he could be on the road and could easily make it into the top 20.
Dark Horses to Watch
While the focus may be on big names like McIlroy and Fleetwood, several dark horses in the field could surprise us with strong performances. Robert MacIntyre (+2800), the star from Scotland, has shown promise and could be a sleeper pick. Likewise, Matthew Fitzpatrick (+3000) and Alex Noren (+3000) are both talented players who can compete in the bullpen this week.
Another name worth mentioning is Shane Lowry (+1400), a former Open Championship winner with a strong record on links-style courses.
Fibak's words
The 2024 BMW PGA Championship promises to be an exciting tournament with a mix of top talent, experienced veterans, and rising stars. Rory McIlroy's quest for a second title, Adam Scott's steady form, and Aaron Rai's breakout year all make compelling picks for bettors. Meanwhile, Billy Horschel offers consistency for those looking for a safe bet at 20, and dark horses like Robert MacIntyre and Shane Lowry can shake things up.
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