2024 USPGA Championship

This week, the USPGA Championship returns to the historic Valhalla Golf Club, marking the second major of the year following Scottie Scheffler's triumphant victory at the Masters last month. As one of golf's most prestigious events, the championship at Valhalla is eagerly anticipated, not just for its significance in the golfing calendar, but also for the challenging and illustrious course it is set on.

Valhalla Golf Club, situated in Louisville, Kentucky, is no stranger to high-profile golf tournaments. Designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus, the course opened in 1986 and has since hosted several major championships, including the USPGA Championships and the Ryder Cup. Known for its beautiful yet demanding layout, Valhalla stretches over 7,500 yards, demanding precision and strategic thinking from the world's best golfers. The course is characterized by its rolling fairways, tricky water hazards, and fast, undulating greens that test even the most seasoned professionals.

The 2014 USPGA Championship at Valhalla remains fresh in the minds of golf enthusiasts as Rory McIlroy battled through a tightly contested final round to secure his victory under rapidly fading light. McIlroy's triumph, his second PGA Championship win, was a showcase of resilience and skill, illustrating the demanding nature of the course and the intense competition it draws.

As the golf world turns its attention back to Valhalla, all eyes will be on the current crop of players to see who will rise to the occasion. With a course rich in history and challenge, and following Scheffler's impressive performance at the Masters, the stage is set for another memorable event. Will we see a seasoned veteran claim victory, or will a new champion emerge? One thing is for certain: the USPGA Championship at Valhalla promises to be a compelling test of golf at the highest level, continuing its tradition of producing unforgettable moments in the sport.

Rory McIlroy 5pts ew 15/2 (8 places Bet365)

The current world number two, Rory McIlroy, arrives at Valhalla for the PGA Championship freshly invigorated from his win at Quail Hollow, marking his 26th victory on the PGA Tour. McIlroy is no stranger to the pressures and exhilaration of major tournaments, and this event holds a special significance for him. He is returning to the scene of his last win in a major, which took place a decade ago — a fact that is both astonishing and a testament to his long-standing prowess in the sport.

In recent times, McIlroy has admittedly navigated through ups and downs, with a quest to rediscover the magical form that once made him the envy of the golfing world. However, his recent performance at Quail Hollow suggests that the tide might be turning. He appeared to finally find his groove with his irons last week, an aspect of his game that had seemed elusive in recent times. This newfound confidence with his irons could not have come at a better time, as he looks to be finding his form just as the PGA Championship draws near.

The anticipation for McIlroy's appearance at Valhalla is high, not just among his fans but also within the golfer himself. There's a sense that he is on the cusp of ending his barren run in major championships. With his game appearing to round into form, McIlroy’s hopeful to capture the kind of magic he wielded ten years ago when he last lifted a major trophy at this very course. It’s a narrative full of potential redemption, growth, and the ever-present thrill of professional golf at its highest level.

As the PGA Championship unfolds, all eyes will be on McIlroy to see if he can leverage his recent win and his history with Valhalla into a performance that breaks his major championship drought. It's a stage set for drama, and Rory McIlroy is no stranger to delivering exactly that.

Tommy Fleetwood 1.5pts ew 35/1 (10 places Betfred)

As the PGA Championship unfolds this week, all eyes will be closely monitoring Tommy Fleetwood, who has consistently shown that he's on the brink of a major breakthrough. Fresh off a commendable performance at the Wells Fargo Championship, where he tied for 13th despite not bringing his A-game, Fleetwood is poised to capitalize on his momentum. The Englishman, well-known for his flowing locks and precision iron play, brings a mix of recent form and increasing confidence, suggesting he's ready to challenge for the top spot.

Fleetwood's history at the PGA Championship venue adds an interesting layer to his campaign. His previous outing here in 2014 didn't go as planned, with Fleetwood missing the cut. However, the experience gleaned from that appearance should not be underestimated. Ten years on, Fleetwood is a vastly improved player, one who has shown he can contend in the heat of major competition. His familiarity with the course, coupled with the lessons learned from 2014, could well prove beneficial as he navigates the challenges it presents.

Although still in search of his first major title, Fleetwood's performance curve suggests that breakthrough might not be far off. His ability to hang tough even when not at his best, as displayed last week, is a testament to his mental fortitude and skill. Moreover, Fleetwood has often thrived under the pressure of major championships, showcasing his game's adaptability to demanding conditions and intense competition.

This week at the PGA Championship, expect Fleetwood to leverage his recent positive momentum and past experience at the venue. The course's intricacies, combined with Fleetwood's refined game and mental toughness, position him as a compelling dark horse. With the elusive first major win still pending, Tommy Fleetwood has every reason to believe that this week represents his best chance to etch his name into golfing history.

Cameron Smith 1pt ew 45/1 (10 places Powers)

I believe this is the first time I've included a LIV golfer in my previews. Cameron Smith comes off a tied runner-up finish at the LIV tournament in Singapore, which was dominantly won by Brooks Koepka. Despite a relative scarcity of traditional professional golf starts recently due to his participation in the LIV Golf League, Smith impressively managed a T6 finish at the Masters last month. While it may cause some discomfort to support a LIV golfer, given the ongoing debates and divisions within the world of professional golf, it's hard to overlook the qualities and skills that Smith possesses, which could very well see him triumph at the PGA Championship this week at Valhalla.

Smith, the highly talented Aussie, has already proven he has what it takes to compete at the highest level, even under less conventional circumstances. His performance at the Masters underscores not just his resilience but also his ability to shine among the best, in spite of having fewer opportunities to do so against a field of players who mostly compete on the PGA Tour. This adaptability and poise under pressure are precisely why I believe he holds significant potential to double his major tally, a feat which would undeniably highlight his exceptional talent and cement his status further in the world of professional golf.

Moreover, his allure this week is enhanced by the surprisingly big price attached to his chances. For a player of Smith's caliber and proven track record in major tournaments, including his 2022 Open Championship victory, such odds seem like a rare opportunity for those looking to back an underdog with a very realistic shot at the title.

In essence, although it might pain some to back a LIV golfer due to the current polarized landscape of professional golf, Cameron Smith undeniably possesses all the necessary qualities and skills to prevail here at Valhalla.

Byeong Hun An 1pt ew 60/1 (10 places Powers)

It's amazing to think only two years ago, Byeong Hun An was relegated to playing on the Korn Ferry Tour, seemingly sailing into the horizon of obscurity. Fast forward two years, and he has remarkably reaffirmed himself on golf's elite stage, climbing his way up to an impressive 23rd in the current World Golf Rankings. An arrives at Valhalla for the PGA Championship this week fresh off a pair of impressive outings, securing a T4 at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson and a solo third last week at the Wells Fargo.

This recent surge in form is a testament to An's resilience and unwavering dedication to the game. Having shown the potential for greatness early in his career, An has endured his share of struggles, battling through the lows with the same grace and determination he displays on the course. His journey is one of perseverance, a reminder that the path to success is rarely linear.

As we look ahead to the PGA Championship at Valhalla, Byeong Hun An is positioned as a strong contender. His game appears finely tuned, with recent performances indicating a player at the peak of his powers. His fine showing at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson, coupled with his solo third at the Wells Fargo, underscores a golfer who has not only found his rhythm but is also peaking at the opportune moment.

An's early career hinted at his potential for greatness, and after a period of recalibration, he stands on the precipice of realizing that potential. The stage is set for An to potentially emerge this week as golf's newest major winner, a narrative almost unthinkable just a couple of years ago. This PGA Championship could very well mark the culmination of An's comeback story, a narrative of resilience, hard work, and the unyielded pursuit of greatness.

Sepp Straka 1pt ew 80/1 (10 places Betfred)

Entering the PGA Championship at Valhalla this week, Sepp Straka is undoubtedly primed for success. Although the betting markets seem to have set his odds a tad too high, underestimating his potential impact on the tournament. Straka's recent form is enviable, with finishes of 16th, 5th, 11th, and 8th, showcasing his consistency and signaling his readiness for the challenge ahead.

Straka's ability to shine on the major stage is undeniable. With a T2 at last year's Open Championship and a T7 at the PGA Championship, he has proven he can compete with the best in the business. His game is well-rounded, and it’s difficult to pinpoint any glaring weaknesses. Whether it’s his precision off the tee, his touch around the greens, or his composure under pressure, Straka brings a complete skill set to Valhalla this week.

Given his recent performances and proven track record in majors, it’s clear Straka isn't just here to participate; he's here to contend. His odds may not reflect his real value in the field, making him an intriguing option for those looking at potential dark horses. As we head into one of golf's grandest stages at the PGA Championship, Sepp Straka is a name to watch. His blend of form, skill, and major championship pedigree makes him a legitimate contender for the Wanamaker Trophy. Don't be surprised if he's in the mix come Sunday, challenging the top of the leaderboard and proving the bookies wrong.