As the PGA Tour heads into the next phase of its Florida swing, all eyes are centered on the iconic Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge. The Arnold Palmer Invitational, one of the Tour’s signature events, is set to captivate golf enthusiasts with a star-studded lineup and a whopping $20 million purse.
Last season, the golf world marveled as Scottie Scheffler emerged as the champion, finishing 15-under par and leading by a comfortable margin of five strokes. He was trailed by Wyndham Clark, Shane Lowry, and Will Zalatoris, each delivering impressive performances.
The Bay Hill course isn’t for the faint-hearted, and it’s going to demand the best iron play from the contenders. Accuracy and hitting greens in regulation will be the defining aspects for success in this challenging event. However, it’s not just about the irons; proficient fairway hitting and stellar putting skills will also play pivotal roles.
Here’s a glimpse at the odds for the Arnold Palmer Invitational, provided by FanDuel:
Scottie Scheffler leads the pack with +320, followed by Rory McIlroy at +750. Ludvig Aberg and Xander Schauffele are at +1600 and +1800 respectively, while Collin Morikawa, Tommy Fleetwood, Justin Thomas and Hideki Matsuyama have odds ranging from +2200 to +2800. Patrick Cantlay, Sungjae Im, Russell Henley, Shane Lowry, Will Zalatoris, Keegan Bradley, Sam Burns, Viktor Hovland and Maverick McNealy complete the list with odds between +3000 and +5500.
Among the favorites, Scheffler, despite not having a tour win this season, continues to be a top contender. His game’s Achilles’ heel seems to be his erratic driver, but if he manages to iron out those kinks, a back-to-back victory is within his reach.
Aberg, who’s been consistent this season making all four cuts and winning the Genesis Invitational, is a serious contender. His ace in the hole is his putting prowess, and if he can maintain his iron play from the Genesis, he’s a strong candidate for the top spot.
Schauffele, who’s been off the radar since finishing T30 at the Sentry due to a wrist injury, is one to watch out for. If he’s back to full fitness, expect a powerhouse performance.
Among the underdogs, Cantlay, with two top-10 finishes this season and exceptional ball striking, could surprise us all. Sam Burns, another dark horse, is known for his excellent iron play and approach shots, making him a potential threat despite the high odds.
The Arnold Palmer Invitational promises to be an electrifying event, and while there are many contenders vying for the title, my money is on Patrick Cantlay. He’s been consistently impressive this season and has the skill set to conquer the Bay Hill course.
Arnold Palmer Invitational Prediction & Pick: Patrick Cantlay (+3000).
This is the thrilling spectacle of golf at its best, and a testament to the enduring legacy of Arnold Palmer. Let the games begin!
