The Players Championship 2026: Expert Picks and Betting Insights
The 2026 Players Championship is upon us, kicking off a crucial stretch in the golf season. For those engaged in betting, fantasy golf, or simply following the action, this tournament consistently delivers high-stakes drama. Experts are offering their predictions, and this preview provides a comprehensive look at the contenders and potential dark horses.
Outright Predictions: Who Will Claim the Title?
Several experts have weighed in on their top picks for the 2026 Players Championship. Pat Mayo, analyst for Underdog/Fantasy National, favors Si Woo Kim (24-1, DraftKings), citing his consistent performance since the start of the FedEx Cup playoffs and impressive ball-striking stats. Ryan Noonan, Content Manager for 4for4/Betsperts, is backing Tommy Fleetwood (27-1, Caesars Sportsbook), highlighting his strong recent form with multiple wins and top finishes worldwide.
Golf Digest’s managing editor, Stephen Hennessey, is leaning towards Collin Morikawa (+2050, DraftKings), trusting his putting consistency and precision game. Senior writer Christopher Powers is betting on Hideki Matsuyama (37-1, DraftKings), citing his course history and strong tee-to-green game. Andy Lack, from Inside Sports Network, believes Ludvig Åberg (27-1, DraftKings) is poised for a breakout victory, praising his stellar ball-striking.
Sleepers and Dark Horses to Watch
Beyond the favorites, several players are generating buzz as potential sleepers. Mayo suggests Nicolai Hojgaard (86-1, DraftKings), noting his strong ball-striking and past success on similar courses. Stewart recommends Chris Gotterup (50-1, FanDuel), highlighting his consistent performance and aggressive playing style. Noonan is eyeing Daniel Berger (60-1, BetMGM), citing improvements in his ball-striking and putting. Hennessey is backing Adam Scott (70-1, FanDuel), pointing to his experience and recent solid play. Powers is putting his faith in Brooks Koepka (65-1, FanDuel), while Lack believes Corey Conners (94-1, DraftKings) could surprise with his accuracy and consistency.
Players to Fade: Avoiding Potential Disappointments
Not all contenders are created equal. Experts also identified players to avoid in your picks. Mayo is fading Ludvig Åberg, believing his strengths are better suited to different course types. Stewart is advising against Si Woo Kim, citing concerns about his putting. Noonan suggests avoiding Patrick Cantlay, pointing to recent struggles with his ball-striking and putting. Hennessey and Powers are both fading Rory McIlroy (14-1, BetRivers) due to concerns about a recent back injury. Lack also advises against betting on McIlroy given the recent health reports.
Matchup Predictions: Head-to-Head Battles
Experts are also offering predictions on head-to-head matchups. Mayo favors Taylor Pendrith (+105) over Christiaan Bezuidenhout. Stewart is backing Adam Scott (-112) against Ben Griffin. Hennessey is predicting a win for Jake Knapp (-105) over Robert MacIntyre. Powers is betting on Rickie Fowler (-110) to beat Shane Lowry, and Lack is supporting Wyndham Clark (+115) over Justin Thomas.
Top 10 Finishes: Identifying Consistent Performers
Looking beyond the outright winner, experts are also predicting players who will finish in the top 10. Mayo is backing Sepp Straka (+495, DraftKings), citing his consistent ball-striking. Stewart is leaning towards Viktor Hovland (+400, Bet365), highlighting his strong approach game. Noonan is supporting Si Woo Kim (+250, Bet365), while Hennessey and Powers are both predicting a top-10 finish for Jake Knapp (+490, FanDuel). Lack believes Alex Noren (+650, BetRivers) will contend.
Expert Performance Tracker
Throughout the season, experts have been tracking their performance. As of the Arnold Palmer Invitational, Powers leads with a 2 for 8 record (up 0.5 units), while Mayo and Noonan are close behind with 3 for 8 records (up 8.7 and 6.6 units respectively). Lack is at 1 for 8 (down 1 unit), and Hennessey is at 0 for 8 (down 8 units).
FAQ: The Players Championship
Q: Who won The Players Championship in 2025?
A: Rory McIlroy defeated J.J. Spaun in a playoff at TPC Sawgrass.
Q: What is the purse for The Players Championship?
A: The tournament offers a purse of around $25 million.
Q: Where is The Players Championship held?
A: The tournament is held at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida.
Q: Is Rory McIlroy playing in the 2026 Players Championship?
A: He is currently scheduled to play, but is dealing with a back injury and will not participate in practice rounds.
Stay tuned to Golf Digest for continued coverage and analysis throughout The Players Championship.
