Golf betting tips: Ryder Cup specials

3pts Jon Rahm too tee off frist in singles at 3/1 (General)

1pt Rahm and Scottie Scheffler to tee off first in singles at 10/1 (Sky Bet)

one of the favourites should oblige in both US (Scottie Scheffler, surely) and European markets but I do wonder if JON RAHM**, rather than Rory McIlroy, ought to head the betting for the away side and at 3/1 (Betfair, Paddy Power, Sky Bet, bet365) in what is likely a two-horse race, we can take a chance.

Coral, Ladbrokes, BetVictor, William Hill, StarSports and BoyleSports also offer this market and all are bigger than 2/1 on Rahm. That woudl be the point at which I draw stumps and let the bet go, so hopefully most readers who wish to follow this piece of advice are able to do so.

Perhaps Donald will surprise us all and rip up the Rome plan but Rahm led the way there and halved his match against Scheffler, the second Ryder Cup in succession where they’ve locked horns, and I expect the Spaniard will be banging the door down for a crack at the world number one, who will be expected to lead the way for the US if he’s performing to his usual standards.

McIlroy was pencilled to be third out two years ago but Europe shrewdly decided to double-bluff the US who, in anticipation of McIlroy filling that slot he so enjoys, put Cantlay there in the hope he could get under mcilroy’s skin as his caddie had on Saturday night.

McIlroy did win his point from the top match in 2021 but that was when he’d been poor and Padraig Harrington sensed that the best way to get a response was with that show of faith, after he’d lost in 2016 and 2018.

Crucially, across 2010, 2012, 2014 and 2023, he’s unbeaten with a 3-0-1 return playing from second, third or fourth. I feel that’s where he’ll want to be again and that he’s cooled on the idea of being the front-man for Europe.Might he meet Bryson DeChambeau in one of those matches?

That Rahm doesn’t get many cracks at Scheffler now he’s on the LIV Golf circuit might also be viewed as another reason to send him out first and the sole Spaniard in the team, who was remarkable in Rome and warmed up well at Wentworth last time (best driver in field), simply looks a perfect fit.

Some firms may offer special prices on Scheffler playing against Rahm in the singles. Anything around 10/1 would look worth taking if you can double up on them

Ryder Cup Opening Match: Analyzing the potential Starters

The Ryder Cup opening match is steeped in tradition and psychological warfare. Beyond simply putting points on the board, the first match sets the tone for the entire competition.A key element often discussed, and sometimes debated, is which player tees off on the odd versus even numbered holes. at the 2023 Ryder Cup in Rome, Europe strategically positioned Rahm to tee off on the odd-numbered holes, capitalizing on the approaches that favored Hatton’s exceptional iron play.

Understanding the Bethpage Black Course

However, the landscape shifts at Bethpage Black. Jamie Kennedy’s analysis suggests a more balanced course, where separating the advantages of odd versus even holes is tough. It may simply come down to player preference and comfort. Kennedy notes a draw often performs well on the even holes, but this presents a potential challenge for Europe. Two of their strongest natural drawers, Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood, are likely to be paired together, and may not be selected for the lead match.

Considering these factors, Rory McIlroy emerges as a strong contender for the opening tee shot.His shorter price reflects his status, and having the Masters champion and top scorer from Rome lead off would be a powerful statement from the European team. However, McIlroy hasn’t played in match one since 2012, suggesting Donald may not prioritize this tradition.

The Rahm Factor

Interestingly, Jon Rahm has consistently been selected for the opening match in all three of his Ryder Cup appearances, even as a rookie in Paris.If this pattern continues, the current odds of 3/1 on Rahm teeing off first could prove to be a valuable bet. His natural fade off the tee also seems well-suited to the challenges presented by the odd-numbered holes.

Selecting Rahm for the opening match and having him drive off would immediately signal Europe’s intention to maintain consistency and leverage a proven strategy.

ALSO READ: RYDER CUP HISTORICAL STATS AND RECENT TRENDS

Key Takeaways

• The opening match sets the tone for the entire Ryder Cup.
• Bethpage Black appears to offer less distinct advantages for odd vs. even holes compared to the 2023 course.
• Rory McIlroy and Jon Rahm are both strong contenders for the opening tee shot.
• Rahm has a history of playing in the opening match in all his Ryder Cup appearances.

Publication Date: 2025/09/25 00:27:35