The 2025 Open Championship: Bettors’ Best Picks for Long Shot Wins

As golf enthusiasts gear up for the upcoming Open Championship, held at the iconic Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland, the buzz around potential long-shot winners is palpable. Unlike the glitzy ambiance of the Masters, the Open Championship thrives on unpredictability, making it a favorite among bettors.

The Allure of the Open Championship

The British Open, renowned for its chaotic nature, presents a unique challenge where players must battle not only each other but also the elements. This intrinsic chaos has led to a noteworthy history of unexpected champions.

Notable Long-Shot Winners in Recent History

Over the past 15 tournaments, several players defied the odds with remarkable victories:

• 2009: Stewart Cink (125/1)
• 2010: Louis Oosthuizen (200/1)
• 2011: Darren Clarke (150/1)
• 2015: Zach Johnson (80/1)
• 2019: Shane Lowry (80/1)
• 2023: Brian Harman (125/1)

On average, the last 15 champions claimed the Claret Jug with odds of 63/1. Given this pattern, seasoned bettors look toward less favored players for lucrative bets.

Top Favorites for the 2025 Open Championship

While betting giants like Scottie Scheffler (+550) and Rory McIlroy (+675) will attract considerable attention, many strategists advocate exploring underdogs that can deliver surprising outcomes. Here are some compelling options:

1. Adam Scott (80/1, FanDuel)

• Performance: An experienced competitor, Scott has been in the tournament since 2000 and has come close to winning numerous times.
• Recent Form: With three top-20 finishes in his last five tournaments, Scott’s form makes him a solid contender.

2. Tony Finau (175/1, bet365)

• Background: Although Finau’s season has been mediocre, he finished third at Royal Portrush in 2019 and has performed well historically at the Open Championship.
• Recent Form: After a steady season with decent placements, this long shot has tremendous upside given his previous performance in similar conditions.

3. Kristoffer Reitan (300/1, bet365)

• Current Trajectory: With a win and several high finishes in recent tournaments, Reitan enters the Open Championship in excellent form.
• Market Advantage: As a less recognized player in the DP World Tour, he offers value at a high price that savvy bettors can exploit.

4. John Parry (700/1, DraftKings)

• Dark Horse Candidate: A two-time winner on the DP World Tour, Parry may be flying under the radar.
• Local Insight: Having spent considerable time in County Antrim, Parry’s familiarity with the Royal Portrush venue could give him an edge.

Why Bet on Long Shots?

Betting on underdogs during the Open Championship can yield substantial returns. Here are a few reasons why strategizing this way can be lucrative:

• Unpredictability: The Open’s weather conditions can drastically alter the game, leveling the playing field among competitors.
• Desire for Value: Experienced bettors often seek to capitalize on longer odds, especially in a tournament known for surprising outcomes.

Key Stats to Consider:

• Six of the last 15 Open winners were longer than 80/1.
• The most recent champions (who defied the odds) demonstrate a pattern that can be capitalized upon.

Conclusion

As the excitement builds for the 2025 Open Championship, the potential for long-shot surprises makes this tournament a compelling spectacle for sports bettors. Whether you choose to follow the favorites or dive into the underdog arena, the unpredictable nature of the Open is sure to deliver.

For a comprehensive gambling guide and the best betting platforms, check out Best USA Sports Betting Sites.

Note: This article is intended for readers aged 21 and above. Always gamble responsibly.