Golf Betting Tips: Sony Open Predictions, Preview and Best Bets

The first full-field PGA Tour event of 2024, the Sony Open, will take place this week in Hawaii, and golf betting tips expert Steve Harrington has found three best bets for the action at Waialae. Read on to find his complete preview and predictions for the Sony Open, and also take advantage of the handpicked bookmaker offers to maximise your betting value. 

The Sony Open Betting

The Sony Open Betting Tips | Thursday 11th January to Sunday 14th January 2024

Top Betting Offers To Take Advantage Of In The Sony Open

Recommended Bets

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Analysing the 2024 PGA Tour’s Sony Open: Key Insights and Predictions

The 2024 PGA Tour’s commencement in Hawaii brings us to an intriguing event at the Waialae Country Club. This week’s competition marks the first full-field event of the year, challenging players on a par 70 course spanning just over 7,000 yards, with Bermuda greens and a tree-lined route. Unlike the expansive Plantation Course, Waialae’s layout demands a different skill set, with the focus shifting from driving to precision with irons and putters.

Course Characteristics and Key Stats

Waialae Country Club presents a unique challenge. Despite its tree-lined fairways, the course does not overly penalise players for their drives. Historical data indicates that scoring heavily relies on iron play and putting prowess. With most approaches falling between 150-175 yards, players proficient in this range hold a distinct advantage. The past winners at this course, such as Si Woo Kim and Hideki Matsuyama, exemplify the importance of excelling in either SG: Approach or SG: Putting.

Past course form is a significant indicator of success here. Prior top-five finishers at Waialae often end up winning. Additionally, correlating form at shorter courses like Colonial, Sea Island, Harbour Town, and El Camaleon is also crucial in predicting outcomes.

The Advantage of Playing the Sentry

Historical trends suggest that players who participated in the preceding week’s Sentry Tournament are likely to perform well in the Sony Open. This could be attributed to them shaking off any off-season rust and gaining a mental edge over competitors. An overwhelming majority of previous winners had played at the Sentry, highlighting its importance as a preparatory event.

Predictions for the Sony Open at Waialae Country Club

Main Bet on the Winner: Justin Rose

Rationale:

• Recent Form: Justin Rose’s recent performance, notably his astonishing 12-under 61 in the final round at The Sentry, underlines his exceptional form. While the overall placement at The Sentry might not have been remarkable (tied for 40th), his ability to post such a low score in a single round demonstrates the calibre of his game. This performance serves as a significant momentum builder heading into the Sony Open.
• Historical Performances at Waialae: Rose’s track record at Waialae is noteworthy. His previous results here include a commendable second-place finish in 2017, where he showcased his skill with rounds of 64. These performances indicate his comfort and familiarity with the course, which could play a pivotal role in his success.
• Key Metrics and Course Suitability: Rose’s game aligns well with the demands of Waialae. His ranking in Strokes Gained: Approach (1st in the final round at The Sentry) aligns with the course’s emphasis on precision iron play. Additionally, his proven proficiency in the 150-175 yard range – a critical distance for approaches at Waialae – further solidifies his potential for success.

First Dark Horse: Corey Conners

Rationale:

• Consistent Top Finishes at Waialae: Conners’ history at Waialae is marked by consistent high finishes. His record includes a third-place finish in 2019, where he closed with two impressive rounds of 64. This pattern of strong performances suggests an affinity for the course layout and conditions.
• Strong Recent Form: Conners’ recent form, particularly his ranking of 3rd for SG: Approach at The Sentry, demonstrates his readiness for the challenges of Waialae. His ability to maintain solid form post-festive season enhances his chances of contending at the Sony Open.
• Course Compatibility: Conners’ game suits the course well. His approach play, particularly in the critical range of 150-175 yards, aligns with Waialae’s demands. Furthermore, his past performances on Bermuda greens, where he has demonstrated the ability to gain strokes, indicate his potential to excel at this venue.

Second Dark Horse: Tom Hoge

Rationale:

• Strong Iron Play: Hoge’s iron play, a crucial aspect at Waialae, stands out. His ranking of 4th for SG: Approach at The Sentry highlights his capability in this area. Additionally, his performance in the 150-175 yard range last season, where he ranked 9th, aligns perfectly with the demands of the Sony Open course.
• Previous Performances in Hawaii: Hoge’s track record in Hawaii, including a third-place finish at Waialae in 2018, underscores his ability to perform well in the region. This experience and comfort in Hawaiian conditions could be a significant advantage.
• Consistent and Improving Form: Hoge’s recent form, including five top 21 finishes in his last 11 starts, demonstrates his consistency. His ability to maintain form and gradually improve positions him as a strong contender, particularly given the specifics of the Waialae course.

Conclusion

In summary, the Sony Open at Waialae presents a unique challenge, favouring players who excel in precision iron play and putting. Justin Rose, with his recent form and historical success at the course, emerges as the top pick. Corey Conners and Tom Hoge, with their consistent performances and course compatibility, stand out as potential dark horses. As the tournament unfolds, these predictions, grounded in thorough analysis, will be intriguing to follow.

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Top Betting Offers To Take Advantage Of In The Sony Open