PGA Championship 2025: An In-Depth Analysis of the Field and Predictions
The 2025 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow is shaping up to be an exciting event, with a mix of established favorites and potential sleepers vying for the Wanamaker Trophy. The tournament, set to begin on May 15, 2025, promises thrilling golf action and unpredictable outcomes.
The Favorites: Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler
Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler are the top favorites heading into the 2025 PGA Championship. McIlroy’s recent Masters victory has lifted a decade-long major drought, and his familiarity with Quail Hollow, where he holds the club record, makes him a formidable contender. McIlroy has won four times at Quail Hollow and finished T22 when it hosted the 2017 PGA Championship. His odds of +500 reflect his strong chances of winning.
Scottie Scheffler, the other top favorite, has been in exceptional form and is considered a slight favorite over McIlroy. Scheffler’s consistent performance and strategic play make him a serious threat at Quail Hollow.
The Sleepers: Xander Schauffele and Collin Morikawa
Xander Schauffele is often overlooked but fits the course perfectly. His odds of 14/1 are considered too high, and many expect them to drop closer to 10/1 by the start of the tournament. Schauffele’s ability to handle contention in majors and his course management skills make him a sleeper pick worth considering.
Collin Morikawa, a two-time major winner and the 2020 PGA champion, is another sleeper to watch. Despite being a top favorite, advanced golf models predict he may struggle, barely cracking the top 10. Morikawa’s recent 14th-place tie at the Masters adds to the intrigue, making his performance at Quail Hollow a closely watched subplot.
The Course and Its Impact
Quail Hollow is known for rewarding players who can drive long and straight off the tee. This characteristic favors players like Chacarra, who is considered one of the most talented drivers in the world. Chacarra’s top 40 finish at almost 2-to-1 odds is a realistic expectation, given his skills and the course’s demands.
Expert Predictions and Betting Odds
Expert predictions and betting odds provide a comprehensive view of the field. Brentley Romine’s ranking of the entire 156-player field at Quail Hollow highlights the depth of talent, with McIlroy and Scheffler at the top. Advanced golf models, which have hit 14 majors, predict surprising outcomes, including Morikawa’s potential struggle.
The Bettors’ Roundtable: Insights and Picks
The Bettors’ Roundtable offers diverse insights from experts. Max Schreiber, for instance, highlights the importance of long and straight drives at Quail Hollow, favoring players like Chacarra. Sia Nejad’s picks and bets for Quail Hollow Club add another layer of analysis, with expert opinions on who might break out and surprise.
Conclusion: The Unpredictable Nature of Quail Hollow
The 2025 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow promises to be a thrilling event, with established favorites and potential sleepers vying for the Wanamaker Trophy. Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler lead the pack, but players like Xander Schauffele and Collin Morikawa add an element of unpredictability. The course’s unique demands and the depth of talent in the field ensure that the tournament will be a memorable one, filled with surprises and exciting golf action.
