PGA Championship 2024 Betting Guide and Course Notes

Who to watch: Market leaders and each-way value

This expanded guide complements our match preview above by analysing betting angles, form lines and market dynamics for the 106th PGA Championship at Valhalla. The aim is to inform readers about likely market movers, where each-way value can be found and how recent form influences odds without promising outcomes.

Rory McIlroy form analysis and major credentials

Rory’s recent wins and return to Valhalla make him a central market reference and his Wells Fargo victory should reframe how bookmakers weight his chances. Punters looking at McIlroy must balance course history, current ball-striking numbers and mental resilience when comparing prices.

Scottie Scheffler: dominance and course compatibility

Scheffler’s season-long statistical dominance puts him at the head of many betting lists and his consistency across metrics makes him the market favourite in most offers. When assessing Scheffler, consider whether the firm lines up with his short-game and putting form at Bentgrass-style greens similar to Valhalla.

Brooks Koepka and defending champion expectations

As defending champion, Koepka brings major-winning pedigree and will often attract speculative support from bettors who back experienced major winners. Bookmakers price in both recent form and historical major performance, so his value needs to be judged against the full field rather than headline results.

Dark horses, value picks and longer odds to consider

Longer-priced players such as proven major performers or recent Tour winners can offer each-way value if they match Valhalla’s statistical profile. Identifying dark horses involves checking recent top-10 rates, ball-striking, course history and whether a player’s game suits the required approach shots and green complexes.

Valhalla course profile and key scoring statistics

Valhalla is a long par 72 with risk-reward holes and receptive Bentgrass greens that reward approach accuracy and short-game recovery. Historical scoring patterns suggest that players who rank highly for proximity to hole and scrambling over the past 12 months tend to finish strongly at this venue.

Driving distance importance at Valhalla explained

Length off the tee helps on a course where longer hitters can reach favourable angles into par 5s and attack tight par 4s, but power alone is insufficient for major success. The best performers typically combine distance with directional control and a high percentage of fairways hit.

Approach play accuracy and iron shot relevance

Approach statistics, especially strokes gained: approach and average proximity to hole, are strong predictors of scoring on Valhalla’s demanding approach holes. Players who consistently hit greens in regulation or leave themselves makeable birdie putts usually climb leaderboards over four rounds.

Putting, short game and tournament scoring trends

Putting on large, fast greens can swing majors and a hot putter over four days often decides the outcome, but scrambling ability moderates poor approach rounds. Analysing short-game conversion rates combined with putting metrics gives a nuanced view of who can hold form under major pressure.

How to approach betting markets and staking plans

Successful tournament betting is rooted in disciplined staking, market comparison and identifying where bookmaker margins create value across markets including outright, each-way and top-10 lines. Treat major betting as part of a broader sports staking plan, keeping stakes proportional to bankroll and avoiding emotional chasing.

Each-way rules and how to find extra bookmaker value

Each-way offers vary by bookmaker in terms of place terms and fraction of odds paid for places, so comparing terms is essential to extract value for bigger-priced selections. Use bookmaker comparison tools to check where a player’s odds and place terms are most competitive, and factor in ties and countback rules.

Market timing and reacting to course form and practice rounds

Market prices will move as practice rounds, weather and late withdrawals filter into betting exchanges and bookmaker books; early lines can offer value for informed punters prepared to wait or move quickly. Watching practice-round reports and early tee times can reveal players who have acclimatised to green speeds and pin positions.

Cross-sport context: how football and horse racing markets align

Experienced bookmakers apply similar principles across sports: value lies where public bias is weakest and statistical edges are strongest, whether that’s a football underdog with a tactical advantage or a horse with a form reversal. Punters who follow football and horse racing markets will recognise the importance of shop-around prices and selective staking in golf majors too.

Live betting and in-play opportunities at majors

In-play golf markets present opportunities for smaller stakes based on momentum shifts, leaderboard movement and weather changes, but they require fast reaction and a clear staking plan. Keep stakes modest in-play and focus on markets you understand, such as head-to-head pairings or next-round leader bets where volatility can create short-term edges.

Account management and bookmaker selection strategy

Use a range of regulated UK bookmakers to access varied odds and place terms, and register with comparison tools to keep track of best offers without opening unnecessary accounts. Always verify bookmaker terms and ensure Responsible Gambling controls are available on accounts you use.

Responsible betting guidance for major golf markets

This content is for readers aged 18+ and is informational only; it does not encourage betting as a way to make money or solve financial problems. Please gamble responsibly, set loss limits, and seek help if betting causes harm; organisations such as GamCare provide free support in the UK.

Combining research with bookmaker offers and promotions

When using promotional offers or free-bets, read T&Cs carefully to understand wagering requirements and expiry windows so the incentive is used effectively and responsibly. Offers can improve value when used as part of a disciplined strategy, but they should never be relied on to recover losses.

Summary: odds, value spots and final checklist

Compare prices for favourites, review each-way terms for bigger-field value and check recent form against Valhalla’s demands before staking any money. Maintain a measured staking plan, keep records of bets and always prioritise responsible play over short-term gain.

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Frequently asked questions about PGA Championship betting

Can Rory McIlroy finally claim a fifth major soon?

Rory’s form and Valhalla history make him a credible contender, but golf outcomes are uncertain and no result can be guaranteed; always bet within your limits. Remember that betting is for entertainment and is only for those aged 18 or over.

How should I evaluate Scottie Scheffler’s price in the market?

Look at his strokes gained across approach and putting, recent wins and how other top players react to course setup before backing him, and compare odds across bookmakers for the best value. Use small stakes relative to your bankroll for favourites in strong form.

Is Brooks Koepka good value as a defending champion?

Defending champions often attract public support, but value depends on recent form, course fit and bookie pricing; consider his major record alongside current performance indicators. Always avoid staking more than you can afford to lose.

Where is the best place to find each-way terms for longer shots?

Compare multiple regulated UK bookmakers and check place fractions and number of places paid, since favourable each-way terms can change expected value for outsiders. Use our bookmaker comparison pages to view up-to-date terms and responsibly weigh options.

Should I use in-play markets during the PGA Championship?

In-play can offer opportunities, especially on evolving leaderboards, but it increases risk and requires discipline and fast decisions; keep stakes small and stick to markets you understand. If in doubt, refrain and watch the event instead.

How can football and horse racing experience help my golf betting?

Skills like value hunting, shop‑around price comparison and disciplined staking transfer well between sports, including football and horse racing, and improve long-term decision making in golf markets. Always treat betting as entertainment and not as a source of income.