The air is getting a bit electrified as the 2023 Masters Tournament is set to begin at the famous Augusta National Golf Club. From simple rounds beginning on Monday, to the first shot of Thursday morning, golfers from around the world are ready to bring their A-game to the course. With defending champ Scottie Scheffler poised to make our jaws drop again and Rory McIlroy attempting for a major win for the first time since 2014, it’s sure to be one to remember.
Scheffler is the early favorite, according to current betting odds via Draft Kings, with +700 odds of taking home his second green jacket. However, he faces stiff competition from McIlroy (+700) and John Rahm (+850) who have been having phenomenal years. Plus, there is Justin Thomas (+2200) fresh off a legendary win at the PGA Championship, as well as Tony Finau (+2200) and Sam Burns (+3500), who are on their respective rises.
If you’re looking for a gamble, keep your eye on Matthew Fitzpatrick (+4500), Si-Woo Kim (+8000), Sahith Theegala (+11000), and Danny Willett (+13000). All of whom could surprise us with a strong showing in this upcoming tournament.
Notably there is also a rivalry between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, a Saudi-backed league, which has been in the sport over the past year. Two prime names to watch in the LIV Golf stakes are Cameron Smith (+2000) and Dustin Johnson (+2500). Smith is currently one of the most polarising figures in the world of golf and he has the kind of talent that could take home a Masters win. Johnson, a past champion at Augusta, is another possibility, but we need to keep a close eye on his form over the next few days.
For those who may not know, LIV Golf is a golfing league backed by the Saudi government, which recently made a daring debut on the golfing scene. It was founded upon a mission to “create innovative golf experiences and tournaments, which bring golfing fans closer to their favourite players and create indelible memories for all”. The league has attracted some of the most well-known golfers, including both Smith and Johnson.
All in all, we are sure to be in for an exciting tournament with plenty of contenders, new and old. Regardless of who you pick, make sure to keep an eye on this tournament as it is sure to be a nail-biting affair. We can’t wait to see who takes home the champions title this time around!
