2024 U.S. Open First-Round Leader Odds and Pinehurst Analysis

The 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2 promises a challenging start, with many top golfers vying for the early lead.

While Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele, and Rory McIlroy are among the favorites, don’t overlook the consistent performances of players like Collin Morikawa and Billy Horschel.

The tournament kicks off this Thursday at the historic Pinehurst No. 2, a course renowned for its challenging layout that prioritizes par-saving.

This year’s tournament promises to be a test of endurance and skill, with many players likely to struggle to keep their scorecards clean.

Betting on the first-round leader and other opening round markets requires careful consideration of each player’s recent form and historical performance at Pinehurst.

Scanning the Odds: First-Round Leader and Opening Markets

Given Pinehurst’s reputation, we expect higher scoring than usual for a PGA Tour event. Here’s a detailed look at the first-round leader odds at BetOnline and other notable betting markets for the opening round and prop bets.

First-Round Leader Odds

• Scottie Scheffler        +1,100
• Xander Schauffele        +2,200
• Rory McIlroy        +2,200
• Collin Morikawa        +2,800
• Viktor Hovland        +2,800
• Bryson DeChambeau        +3,000
• Brooks Koepka        +3,500
• Ludvig Aberg        +3,500
• Tommy Fleetwood        +4,000

Pinehurst No. 2 is set to play firm and fast with high temperatures and minimal rainfall expected, making it a tough battleground.

Historically, this course has seen few players break par, and we anticipate a similar scenario for the first-round leader this year.

Top Contenders: Analyzing the Favorites

Scottie Scheffler: The Safe Bet

Scottie Scheffler, the current World No. 1, is a favorite for good reason. Leading the PGA Tour in scoring average and bogey avoidance, he also tops the field in strokes gained tee-to-green. His consistent performance makes him a reliable pick to finish in the Top 20 after Round 1.

Pick: Scottie Scheffler Top 20 After Round 1 (-110 at betOnline)

Xander Schauffele: Momentum Matters

Fresh off a major victory at the PGA Championship and a strong T8 finish at the Memorial, Xander Schauffele ranks second in Round 1 scoring average on the PGA Tour. His impressive tee-to-green game and solid putting make him a strong candidate for a top finish in the first round.

Pick: Xander Schauffele Top 20 After Round 1 (+160 at BetOnline)

Rory McIlroy: A Wide Range of Outcomes

Rory McIlroy’s recent form includes gains in strokes across all categories and a victory at the Wells Fargo. With five consecutive Top 10 finishes at the U.S. Open, his potential for a strong start is high, though his performance can be somewhat variable.

Collin Morikawa: Consistency and Momentum

Tied with Schauffele for second in Round 1 scoring, Collin Morikawa comes into this major with significant momentum. He has finished in the Top 15 in the past three U.S. Opens, including two Top 5 finishes. While his odds have shortened, his track record makes him a notable contender.

Billy Horschel: A Solid Sleeper Pick

Billy Horschel’s recent form, featuring three consecutive Top-25 finishes, positions him as a strong sleeper pick. His proficiency in bogey avoidance and scrambling, combined with a solid showing at Pinehurst in 2014, makes him a valuable pick for the opening round.

View US Open betting odds here