As the anticipation builds for the highly awaited 89th Masters Tournament at Augusta National, the excitement among golf enthusiasts is palpable. Starting this Thursday, history and prestige will meet skill and strategy as top competitors vie for the coveted green jacket.

As expected, the frontrunners for this year’s championship are two-time champion Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy, each boasting impressive track records and formidable skills on the course. But who else should fans and bettors keep an eye on? Let’s explore some of the promising candidates, along with insights from expert analyst Brad Thomas.

Jon Rahm: The LIV Heavyweight at +350

Jon Rahm, known for his remarkable prowess, has become a focal point among betting markets after his odds surged from +2000 to a consensus of +1300. His recent performances have been stellar, with consistent top 10 finishes indicating that he’s primed for contention this week. In fact, Rahm holds the title as the top LIV finisher and has been accumulating an impressive average of gained strokes over his past 36 rounds. With his impeccable driving and solid putting game, he appears to be one of the most intriguing competitors as the Masters Day approaches.

Max Homa: A Risky Bet to Miss the Cut at +120

While the Masters Tournament typically allows a higher probability for players to make the cut due to a 95-player field, there are still potential pitfalls. Max Homa, who has notably missed his last five cuts, presents an intriguing betting opportunity at +120 for those looking to wager against him. His struggles mainly stem from disastrous Thursday performances and significant alterations to his approach this season, including a gear switch from Titleist to Cobra and a complete overhaul of his coaching team. With his recent form in question, those keen on betting should tread thoughtfully when considering Homa's chances.

Collin Morikawa: A Strong Contender for Top 10 at +130

With impeccable precision and skill, Collin Morikawa shines at Augusta. In just five appearances, he has remarkably finished within the top 10 three times. His ability to navigate the intricacies of Augusta National's challenging holes, along with his accuracy—averaging 72% in fairway hits—makes him a formidable presence. His consistent finishes, including three top 10s in his last five tournaments, position him as not just a contender, but quite possibly the one to snag his first green jacket this season. Placing a bet on Morikawa to finish in the top 10 could yield promising returns.

Masters Tournament Outlook

As we gear up for the Masters Tournament, history tells us that surprises can always emerge from the field. Bettors should approach this week with care, considering established players and potential underdogs alike. With Scheffler and McIlroy leading the expectations, who will rise above and claim the coveted title?

Stay tuned as we cover every moment and offer powerful insights throughout this iconic event in the golfing calendar!