The Sentry Tournament of Champions marks the opening event of the 2025 PGA Tour season, taking place at the Plantation Course at Kapalua in Maui, Hawaii from January 2-5.
Here’s a preview based on available information:
Field and Qualifications:
- The tournament features an exclusive field of 60 players, consisting of all PGA Tour winners from the previous calendar year (2024) along with the top 50 players from the 2024 FedExCup standings, who otherwise did not qualify with a win.
- Notable absences include world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, who is recovering from hand surgery, and Rory McIlroy, who has opted not to participate. Xander Schauffele, a two-time major champion in 2024, headlines the field.
Course and Conditions:
- The Plantation Course at Kapalua is a par-73 layout stretching over 7,596 yards, known for its scenic beauty, large greens, and challenging elevation changes. The course’s defense includes uneven lies and occasional coastal winds, although it’s generally considered a ‘birdie-fest’ due to its wide fairways and forgiving design.
- The weather forecast for the tournament suggests trade winds from an easterly direction initially, with a chance of southwesterly breezes by Sunday, but rain is not expected to be a significant issue.
Favorites and Betting Odds:
- Xander Schauffele is listed as the favorite to win, with odds at +550.
- Other top betting favorites include Justin Thomas at 9-1, Collin Morikawa at 11-1, Ludvig Aberg at 14-1, and Patrick Cantlay at 16-1.
- Longshots include Corey Conners at 30-1, who has shown good form in approach play and driving accuracy.
Key Players to Watch:
- Xander Schauffele: A former winner at Kapalua and coming off a strong year with two major championships. His performance is expected to be a significant factor.
- Collin Morikawa: Known for his iron play, Morikawa has a history of strong performances at Kapalua, making him a consistent contender.
- Sungjae Im: Has a record of strong finishes at this venue, and his recent form suggests he could make a run for the title.
Prize and Format:
- The tournament offers a $20 million purse with $3.6 million going to the winner, highlighting its status as a signature event.
- The format includes four rounds, with tee times starting at 12:45 p.m. ET on Thursday. The competition is fierce, with the field aiming to set the tone for the 2025 season.
Recent Trends and Insights:
- The Plantation Course is known for low scores, with the average winning score in recent years around 26 under par.
- Players who excel in approach play and around-the-green skills tend to perform well here.
- The absence of Scheffler opens up opportunities for other players to shine, and the tournament could see a new winner or a repeat performance from a past champion.
How to Watch :
For viewers, the tournament will be broadcast on various platforms, including Golf Channel, NBC, and streaming services like ESPN+ and Peacock.
This preview encapsulates the anticipation and excitement surrounding the 2025 Sentry Tournament of Champions, setting the stage for what promises to be an engaging start to the PGA Tour’s new season.
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