2026 PGA Championship Preview: Scheffler and McIlroy Lead Odds at Aronimink
The 2026 PGA Championship is set to take place at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, marking the tournament's return to the venue since 1962. Defending champion and world number one Scottie Scheffler enters as the betting favorite, aiming to become the first repeat winner since 2019. Rory McIlroy, fresh off back-to-back Masters victories, sits as the second favorite, while Jordan Spieth seeks to complete his career Grand Slam. Analysts highlight strong contention from Cameron Young, Jon Rahm, and Bryson DeChambeau, framing the event around themes of legacy, redemption, and intense rivalry among golf’s elite.
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Laura Davies Backs Scheffler and Predicts Low Score for McIlroy at PGA Championship
Dame Laura Davies has offered her analysis on the final round of the 2026 PGA Championship, expressing confidence in world number one Scottie Scheffler despite him trailing leader Alex Smalley by five shots. Davies argues that Smalley is unlikely to hold the lead, effectively placing Scheffler just three shots behind main contenders like Jon Rahm and Ludvig Aberg. She emphasizes that Scheffler's victory chances hinge entirely on improving his putting, which has been cold throughout the tournament. Additionally, Davies highlighted Rory McIlroy as a top contender, noting his strong performance since a poor opening round. She predicted that McIlroy, known for strong Sunday finishes, is likely to shoot a low score of 65 or 66. While this might not guarantee a win if others post lower numbers, Davies believes it is well within McIlroy's capabilities. The article sets the stage for a competitive final day at Aronimink, with Scheffler potentially needing a 63 or 64 to claim the Wanamaker trophy for a second consecutive year.
yahoo sportsRyan Lavner Rules Out Scottie Scheffler for PGA Championship Victory, Backs Ludvig Aberg
Golf analyst Ryan Lavner has declared that world number one Scottie Scheffler is out of contention for the PGA Championship title at Aronimink following a poor third-round performance. Despite being tied for the lead after Thursday and remaining in the top ten at the halfway mark, Scheffler struggled significantly on the greens during Saturday's round in Philadelphia. Data indicates he lost 2.29 strokes on putting alone, missing six putts from inside ten feet, which left him five shots behind the leaders. Lavner argues that the deficit is insurmountable given the high number of players ahead of Scheffler, including major contenders like Jon Rahm, Rory McIlroy, and Xander Schauffele. Instead of backing the favorite, Lavner predicts that Swedish golfer Ludvig Aberg will secure his first major victory. He cites Aberg's superior ball-striking abilities as the deciding factor in a tournament heavily influenced by putting variance. Although Aberg faced scrutiny after a previous collapse at The Players Championship, Lavner believes this performance will validate his status among the game's elite players.
yahoo sportsExperts Predict Winners for Final Round of 2026 PGA Championship
As the 2026 PGA Championship at Aronimink enters its final round, Alex Smalley holds the 54-hole lead at six under par, marking his fifth major start. However, the field remains tightly contested, with five players, including Jon Rahm, Ludvig Aberg, and Aaron Rai, trailing by just two strokes. Rory McIlroy and Xander Schauffele are three shots behind, contributing to what analysts describe as one of the most open major Sundays in recent years. Yahoo Sports and GOLF magazine editors offer their predictions for the winner. Zephyr Melton and Josh Berhow both favor Jon Rahm, citing his motivation to redeem himself after a poor performance at Augusta and his pursuit of the career Grand Slam. Josh Schrock predicts Xander Schauffele will edge out Rahm and McIlroy, while noting Scottie Scheffler's potential to post a low early score. Josh Sens selects Justin Rose as a strategic pick, leveraging his ability to post an early score without the pressure of leading. The consensus suggests that while Smalley is the current leader, experienced contenders like Rahm and Schauffele are favored to capitalize on the final holes.
yahoo sportsGolf Writers Predict Winner of 2026 PGA Championship Amid Tight Leaderboard
With one round remaining in the 2026 PGA Championship at Aronimink, Alex Smalley holds a two-stroke lead at six under par after 54 holes. However, the field remains highly competitive, with five players, including Jon Rahm, Ludvig Aberg, and Aaron Rai, trailing by just two shots. Rory McIlroy and Xander Schauffele are three strokes back, while 21 players remain within four shots of the lead. GOLF.com writers offer their predictions for the final Sunday round. Zephyr Melton and Josh Berhow both favor Jon Rahm, citing his motivation to prove critics wrong following a poor performance at Augusta and his pursuit of the career Grand Slam. Josh Schrock anticipates a late surge from the chasing pack, ultimately picking Xander Schauffele to edge out Rahm and McIlroy, while keeping an eye on Scottie Scheffler. Meanwhile, Josh Sens selects Justin Rose, arguing that his position outside the immediate spotlight allows him to play freely without the pressure of expectation. The consensus suggests that while Smalley is the current leader, the depth of talent behind him makes a victory for a major champion more likely.
Golf.com - Top StoriesPGA Championship Round 4 Predictions: Smalley Favored, Analysts Back Aberg and Scheffler
This article provides expert predictions and betting picks for the final round of the PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club. Alex Smalley holds the lead after 54 holes, but analyst commentary suggests fading him in favor of top-tier contenders due to value in the odds. Scottie Scheffler, the world number one, is highlighted as a strong buy opportunity despite being five strokes behind, attributed to poor putting performance that is expected to regress to the mean. Ludvig Aberg is selected as the best pick to win, citing his superior strokes gained from tee-to-green, while Rory McIlroy is also favored due to his consistent performance across all metrics and driving distance advantage. The analysis utilizes live odds from prediction market Kalshi, emphasizing the tough scoring conditions and the potential for a thrilling conclusion similar to major championship comebacks. The author recommends outright winner bets on Aberg, McIlroy, and Scheffler, arguing that the crowded leaderboard offers exceptional value on proven major contenders entering Sunday's decisive round.
Covers.com: general News and StoriesScottie Scheffler Remains Heavy Favorite at PGA Championship Despite Trailing by Two Shots
Following the second round of the PGA Championship in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, the leaderboard features a historic bottleneck with fifteen players within two shots of the lead. Co-leaders Maverick McNealy and Alex Smalley sit at 4 under par, marking only the third major championship in history with such a tight field after 36 holes. Despite shooting a 1-over 71 on Friday and trailing by two strokes, World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler remains the overwhelming favorite to win among sportsbooks. DraftKings lists Scheffler at +340, significantly ahead of Cameron Young, who is the second favorite at +970. Other notable contenders include Ludvig Aberg and McNealy, who are tied for the next shortest odds. The betting markets reflect confidence in Scheffler’s recent form, having won 20 times on the PGA Tour since 2022 and defended his title from 2025. Meanwhile, co-leader Smalley, who has no professional wins, faces longer odds at +1400, highlighting the disparity between current leaderboard position and perceived winning probability based on player resumes and recent performance trends.
Deadspin > Sports News Without Fear, Favor or CompromiseScottie Scheffler Remains Heavy Favorite at PGA Championship Despite Trailing by Two Shots
Following the second round of the PGA Championship in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, the leaderboard features a historic bottleneck with fifteen players within two shots of the lead. Co-leaders Maverick McNealy and Alex Smalley sit at 4 under par, marking only the third major championship in history with such a tight field after 36 holes. Despite shooting a 1-over 71 on Friday and sitting two strokes back, World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler remains the overwhelming favorite to win among sportsbooks. DraftKings lists him at +340 and BetMGM at +375, significantly ahead of the rest of the field. Scheffler, the defending champion from 2025, is followed by Cameron Young as the second favorite. Other notable contenders include Ludvig Aberg and co-leader McNealy, who saw his odds shift after late bogeys. The article highlights how bookmakers prioritize Scheffler’s consistent performance and career resume over the current leaderboard positions, reflecting strong confidence in his ability to close out the tournament despite the crowded field.
Deadspin > Sports News Without Fear, Favor or CompromisePGA Championship 2026: Betting Odds and Analysis Entering Third Round at Aronimink
As the 108th PGA Championship enters its third round at Aronimink Golf Club, oddsmakers favor pre-tournament favorites despite Maverick McNealy and Alex Smalley holding the co-lead after 36 holes. Difficult pin locations and weather conditions have resulted in the highest scoring average for the event since 2008, benefiting top-ranked players like Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy. Scheffler remains the betting favorite at +340, followed by Cameron Young (+970) and Ludvig Åberg (+1175). Current co-leaders McNealy (+1250) and Smalley (+1550) trail several major contenders in the odds. Analysts highlight value in Åberg, who performed strongly on Friday, and suggest a parlay bet involving Young and Scheffler for top finishes. The article provides a detailed breakdown of winner prediction odds and specific wagers for the upcoming round, noting the challenging nature of the course setup which Scheffler described as absurdly difficult.
yahoo sportsUpdated PGA Championship Odds: Scheffler Remains Favorite After Round 2
Following the second round of the 2026 PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club, Alex Smalley and Maverick McNealy share the lead at 4-under par. Despite slipping two shots behind the leaders after shooting a 1-over 71, Scottie Scheffler retains his status as the odds-on favorite to win the tournament, listed at +390 on FanDuel Sportsbook. Scheffler, who was part of a seven-way tie after Round 1, expressed frustration with the difficult pin placements, calling them the hardest he has encountered on tour. Meanwhile, Smalley maintained his position with another under-par round, seeing his odds adjust slightly to 13/1. McNealy, propelled into contention by an eagle on the 16th hole, shares 12/1 odds with Ludvig Aberg, who shot a low-round 64. Cameron Young also improved his standing significantly, moving into a tie for ninth place with odds of +950. The tournament has been marked by volatile scoring conditions due to wind and tough course setups, keeping many players within close proximity of the lead. Off the course, pace-of-play issues sparked arguments involving Justin Thomas and Keegan Bradley, adding to the event's drama.
New York PostPGA Championship Round 3 Betting Picks: Smalley, Niemann, and Aberg Analysis
This article offers betting predictions and picks for the third round of the 2026 PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club. Although Scottie Scheffler and Cameron Young lead the odds, the analyst highlights three alternative markets. First, Alex Smalley is picked to finish in the Top 10, citing his five consecutive Top 25 finishes and strong putting performance, having made 10 birdies and hit 24 of 36 greens in regulation. Second, Joaquin Niemann is selected to finish in the Top 40; despite currently sitting tied for 44th, his high ranking in strokes gained tee-to-green suggests potential for a leaderboard climb if his putting improves. Finally, the analysis favors Ludvig Aberg to outperform Jon Rahm. Rahm has struggled with accuracy, hitting only 11 of 28 fairways, while Aberg ranks fifth in strokes gained tee-to-green and holds a current stroke lead. The piece includes specific odds for these propositions and promotes trading on the Kalshi platform.
Covers.com: general News and StoriesPGA Championship 2026: Scheffler and McIlroy Lead Odds at Aronimink
As the 108th PGA Championship approaches at Aronimink Golf Club, Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy are established as the top favorites according to oddsmakers. Scheffler, the reigning Wanamaker Trophy winner, holds the shortest odds at +385, while McIlroy, seeking his third title after recent success at Augusta, follows at +910. A notable gap exists between these leaders and the next tier, which includes Jon Rahm (+1400) and Bryson DeChambeau (+1850). Recent form has influenced betting lines, with Cameron Young rising above Xander Schauffele and Matthew Fitzpatrick dropping slightly. The analysis highlights Tommy Fleetwood (+2700) as a strong value pick due to his consistent top-10 finishes and perfect cut record this season. Additionally, Tyrrell Hatton (+6000) is identified as a compelling longshot option following a solid performance at the Masters, despite ongoing discussions surrounding LIV Golf players. The article provides a comprehensive breakdown of current betting trends, significant movers in the odds board, and strategic recommendations for bettors ahead of the tournament's first round near Philadelphia.
yahoo sportsScottie Scheffler Named Favorite for 2026 PGA Championship
Scottie Scheffler remains the prohibitive betting favorite for the 2026 PGA Championship at Aronimink, listed at +450 odds. The 29-year-old World No. 1, who has held the top ranking for 157 consecutive weeks since May 2023, enters the tournament as the defending champion. Scheffler boasts an impressive record of 20 PGA Tour wins and four major championships, with 13 top-10 finishes in majors. Although he is the clear favorite, Cameron Young is noted as the hottest player in the field currently, having recently won the Players Championship and Cadillac Championship to rise to World No. 3. Rory McIlroy, the back-to-back Masters champion, follows Scheffler in the odds at +850. Other notable contenders include Jon Rahm, Xander Schauffele, and Bryson DeChambeau. The article highlights the strong trio of Scheffler, McIlroy, and Young as primary contenders while acknowledging a deep field of talented golfers. This overview provides insight into the betting landscape and key player forms leading up to the year's second major championship, promising a competitive event.
Golf.com - Top StoriesScottie Scheffler Favored to Defend 2026 PGA Championship Title with 17% Win Probability
Scottie Scheffler enters the 2026 PGA Championship as the overwhelming favorite to defend his Wanamaker Trophy, holding a 17% win probability according to prediction market Kalshi. With odds of +500, Scheffler leads the 156-player field despite skipping the recent Truist Championship. His strong position is supported by leading statistics in true strokes gained per round and tee-to-green performance this year. Rory McIlroy follows as the second favorite with a 9.3% chance, although his odds lengthened after a T19 finish at Quail Hollow. The tournament will be held at Aronimink Golf Club in Pennsylvania, a venue that has not hosted the major since 1962. This lack of recent course history is expected to create a more open competition, potentially benefiting long-shot contenders. Analysts note that the par-70 course favors powerful drivers and sharp approach games. While most favorites saw their odds lengthen following recent tune-up events, Xander Schauffele and Bryson DeChambeau were exceptions. The final field spots were claimed by Brandt Snedeker and Sudarshan Yellamaraju, setting the stage for a highly anticipated major championship.
Covers.com: general News and Stories2026 PGA Championship Predictions: Cameron Young and Russell Henley Highlighted as Top Bets
As the second major championship of the 2026 PGA Tour season approaches, analysts provide early predictions and betting insights for the PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club in Newton Square, Pennsylvania. Scheduled from May 14 to May 17, the event features a 156-player field competing on a challenging Par 70 course restored by Gil Hanse. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Cameron Young are identified as the top-tier favorites, with Young cited as the best early bet at +1200 odds due to his complete statistical profile. Russell Henley is highlighted as the best value play at +5000, leveraging his elite tee-to-green precision and recent strong performances in majors. Although Aronimink’s design includes significant defensive features like 174 bunkers and contoured greens, experts predict that May weather conditions, including expected rain, will soften the course and lower scoring barriers. The analysis suggests that while distance is advantageous, accuracy and course management will be critical for success. The tournament will implement a cut to the top 70 players and ties after Round 2, setting the stage for a competitive weekend under potentially sunny skies.
Covers.com: general News and StoriesGOLF.com Staff Picks for 2026 PGA Championship Winner at Aronimink
As the 2026 PGA Championship approaches at Aronimink Golf Club, the GOLF.com staff shares their predictions for the tournament winner. The article highlights Jordan Spieth's recent comments comparing his swing adjustments to smoking chicken, noting his quest for a career grand slam despite consistency issues. However, the primary focus is on the betting picks from five analysts. Josh Berhow, Dylan Dethier, and Jack Hirsh all favor Cameron Young (+1,200), citing his strong recent form and suitability for classic Northeast courses. James Colgan selects Brooks Koepka (+4,000), arguing that the big, burly course layout suits Koepka's game as he shows signs of resurgence. In contrast, Jessica Marksbury backs the defending champion and World No. 1, Scottie Scheffler (+450), emphasizing his dominant performance history and consistency. The piece serves as a guide for bettors and fantasy league participants, analyzing player forms and course characteristics to identify potential winners for the year's second major championship.
yahoo sports2026 PGA Championship: Expert Picks, Predictions, and Betting Tips for Aronimink
Neil Parker provides a comprehensive cheat sheet for the 2026 PGA Championship, set to begin on Thursday, May 14, at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania. The analysis aims to help participants succeed in major championship pools by combining statistical insights with strategic advice. Parker emphasizes the importance of surviving the 36-hole cut, selecting appropriate favorites, and identifying undervalued mid-tier golfers. Key favorites highlighted include Scottie Scheffler, noted for his superior ball-striking and course fit, alongside Cameron Young and Jon Rahm. In the contender category, Ludvig Aberg and Collin Morikawa are recommended for their recent form and specific skill sets. For long-shot options, Russell Henley and Patrick Reed are identified as players whose games suit the course despite higher odds. The article also advises avoiding certain high-profile names that may underperform. With Aronimink last hosting a significant event in 2018, current form and course fit present unique challenges. This guide offers targeted strategies to navigate the 156-player field and maximize chances of finishing in the money during the second major of the year.
Covers.com: general News and StoriesScheffler Seeks Repeat Title as McIlroy Targets Major Momentum at PGA Championship
Scottie Scheffler enters the 2026 PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club as the favorite to become the first repeat winner since Brooks Koepka in 2019. The world number one aims to convert recent runner-up finishes into a victory, having narrowly missed a historic comeback at the Masters. Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy arrives with significant momentum after successfully defending his Masters title, despite limited competitive play leading up to this major. Analysts remain confident in McIlroy’s readiness, citing his strategic preparation similar to his approach before Augusta. Beyond the top two, notable contenders include Jon Rahm, who seeks redemption after a final-round collapse last year, and Jordan Spieth, who has the opportunity to complete his career Grand Slam. Bryson DeChambeau and Cameron Young are also positioned as strong challengers. The tournament marks the return of the PGA Championship to Aronimink in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, for the first time since 1962. This event highlights the intense rivalry and high stakes among golf’s elite players as they compete for the year’s second major championship title.
Latest NewsFive Key Storylines to Watch at the 2026 PGA Championship
The 2026 PGA Championship, the second major of the year, is set to begin at Aronimink Golf Club in Pennsylvania. The tournament features several compelling narratives centered on top golf stars. World number one Scottie Scheffler enters as the defending champion, aiming to retain his title despite recent runner-up finishes at the Masters and other events. His consistency is evident, but converting contention into victories remains a focus. Rory McIlroy, having completed his career Grand Slam by winning the 2025 Masters and successfully defending it in 2026, seeks his third Wanamaker Trophy. With renewed confidence from his recent major successes, McIlroy looks to climb further up the all-time major championship list. Meanwhile, Jordan Spieth is on a quest to complete his own career Grand Slam. Although he has not won on tour since 2022 and has faced inconsistent form, Spieth reports positive progress in his game. These storylines highlight the intense competition and high stakes as the golf world gathers for this prestigious event, focusing on legacy, redemption, and historical achievements among the sport's elite players.
Latest NewsScottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy Lead Odds for 2026 PGA Championship
The world's top golfers are converging on Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, for the 2026 PGA Championship, the second major of the season. Defending champion Scottie Scheffler enters as the betting favorite at +350, marking his 14th consecutive major as the top pick. This streak dates back to the 2022 Open Championship, the last major where he did not lead the odds. Rory McIlroy, fresh off his recent Masters victory at Augusta National, sits as the second choice at +650 despite a tied-for-19th finish at the Truist Championship. Cameron Young follows as the third favorite after a strong T10 performance at Quail Hollow. LIV Golf stars Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau are positioned as fourth and fifth favorites, respectively, though they face scrutiny following poor showings at the Masters. Other notable contenders include Xander Schauffele, Matt Fitzpatrick, and Ludvig Aberg. The article highlights intriguing long-shot options such as Robert MacIntyre and Min Woo Lee, providing a comprehensive overview of the betting landscape via FanDuel Sportsbook for this prestigious tournament.
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