Golf US Open 2023: Preview and Odds
The 123rd US Open will be held this coming weekend at the Los Angeles Country Club. The favourites seem strong, but will there be any dark horses in the competition?
The United States Open Championship, or US Open, returns to Los Angeles after a 75-year hiatus. The championship will indeed be played under the spotlight, as the course is located in the heart of Beverly Hills' famous affluent residential area. So, we can expect to see some of the biggest stars from both the golf and entertainment worlds from Thursday to Friday.
A quick glance shows that the big stars also seem to be in good form in the golfing arena. Initially, no surprises are expected, but sports always have a way of surprising us. Let’s take a closer look at who and what can be predicted for the upcoming US Open 2023.
Shaking up the favourites is easier said than done
If we throw out the names Brooks Koepka, Scottie Scheffler, and Jon Rahm, many would hardly be surprised. This trio has clearly distinguished themselves from the others during this golf season.
The most recent Major winner, Koepka, enters the competition after conquering the PGA Championship just a couple of weeks ago. A couple of tougher years plagued by injuries are now behind him, and the LIV Tour veteran is once again playing fantastic golf, with victory in sight.
Scottie Scheffler is currently the world number one, and his baseline performance has been solid. In March, he won the so-called "fifth major," the Players Championship. He has shown strong form, with his last four tournaments resulting in two third places, one second place, and one fifth place. If anyone knows how to win, it’s Scottie, as evidenced by his triumph at last year's Masters in Augusta.
Spain and Europe’s top gun, Jon Rahm, demonstrated his skills on the same legendary Augusta stage by winning this year's green jacket. Rahm's PGA Championship didn’t quite hit the mark, but overall he has had a strong season, securing 4 victories out of 14 tournaments played. We can expect to see "Rahmbo" in the mix for the top spots as well.
Best winning odds for the favourites at the US Open:
Who has the potential for surprises?
As we have previously highlighted, could it finally be Xander Schauffele's time? He is perhaps one of the most consistent top players in the world, almost guaranteed to be in the fight for the brightest spots in the majors. He has often finished second or third, but victories have eluded him by a narrow margin. Could this year bring him luck, as he certainly has the talent to go all the way?
Nick Taylor, who thrilled half of Canada last weekend, is also looking for a top result in Los Angeles after his victory at RBC Heritage. Taylor, who has made some incredible clutch putts at critical moments, is indeed a strong contender, but momentum usually plays a huge role in golf. Perhaps he can build on his recent success and achieve more?