The anticipation is building for golf enthusiasts worldwide as the 2025 Masters Tournament at Augusta National promises a thrilling showdown. Defending champion Scottie Scheffler is stepping onto the greens with a focus on making history by being the first to secure back-to-back wins at the Masters since the legendary Tiger Woods achieved it more than two decades ago. Scheffler, holding his position as world No. 1, is heavily favored by the betting community with odds at +400. His journey this season hasn't been without its bumps, though, as injuries sidelined him in various contests.
Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy is charging into the tournament with remarkable momentum. His sights are set on a career Grand Slam, having already notched two PGA Tour victories this year. As the most significant concern for sportsbooks at 13-2 odds, McIlroy is certainly not to be underestimated. He’s in stellar form, and many experts see him as strong competition for Scheffler.
Jon Rahm, the 2023 Masters winner, heads to Augusta amidst a backdrop of a tumultuous 2024 season, yet his chances remain vibrant with odds standing at 14-1. Rahm's performances in the LIV series have been commendable, keeping critics at bay temporarily, but there are still whispers about his consistency in major tournaments.
Also vying for the spotlight is Collin Morikawa, who occupies the fourth rank globally. He's consistently thrived at Augusta, bagging three top-10 finishes at the event. The PGA Tour leader in strokes gained from tee to green is pegged as a dark horse with odds of 16-1. Then there’s Justin Thomas, showcasing a resurgence with four top-10 finishes out of his last eight tournaments. He offers enticing value for those willing to wager at 22-1, backed by his masterful iron play and adaptability on the short game.
Joaquin Niemann is another notable entrant, sieving through the ranks as a special invitee after joining the LIV Golf roster. At 30-1 odds, he's thirsting for a standout performance in the major leagues. The pairings this year bring excitement, featuring Scheffler alongside Justin Thomas and the young amateur Jose Luis Ballester teeing off at 10:15 a.m. ET. In another exciting threesome, Rahm will partner with Wyndham Clark and Tommy Fleetwood at 1:34 p.m. ET. Fans of LIV will be buzzing as Phil Mickelson, Keegan Bradley, and Jason Day hit the course together at 9:58 a.m. ET.
Opinions are divided among experts as to who will wear the Green Jacket this time around. While some bettors are drawn to Scheffler’s undeniable mastery at Augusta, others are swayed by McIlroy’s impeccable form, although longshots like Brooks Koepka and Sergio Garcia couldn't be ignored, with Koepka positioned at 30-1 and Garcia offering aperitive odds at +600.
The weather might play a favorable role, projecting partly cloudy skies with the mercury sitting comfortably in the 60s to 70s. This forecast looks like a golfer's dream, particularly for those who thrive as precision ball-strikers, a crucial skill on Augusta’s demanding course.