2025 PGA Championship: Sleeper Picks and Underdog Hopes at Quail Hollow

The anticipation is building as the second major of the 2025 golf season, the PGA Championship, rapidly approaches. All eyes are on Quail Hollow in Charlotte, North Carolina, as the world’s best golfers prepare to battle for the coveted Wanamaker Trophy. While the top of the leaderboard is expected to feature familiar faces like Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Bryson DeChambeau, the PGA Championship is notorious for producing unexpected champions. The tournament has a rich history of underdogs and long shots defying the odds, capturing the hearts of golf fans worldwide.

The allure of a major championship lies not only in witnessing the brilliance of the established stars but also in the possibility of a relative unknown seizing the moment. Think of John Daly’s improbable victory in 1991, a story that continues to inspire hope for those further down the betting odds. Daly, a virtual unknown at the time, captivated the golf world with his grip-it-and-rip-it style and ultimately emerged victorious. His triumph serves as a constant reminder that anything is possible in golf, especially at a major championship where pressure and course conditions can level the playing field.

Quail Hollow, a challenging and demanding course, is known for favoring long hitters and those who can navigate its undulating greens. Accuracy off the tee is also paramount, as wayward drives can quickly lead to trouble. The course’s length and strategic layout often reward aggressive play, but risk management is equally crucial for success. Players who can blend power and precision while maintaining composure under pressure will have the best chance of contending.

As the opening round approaches, golf enthusiasts and bettors alike are scouring the odds, searching for potential sleepers who could make a run at the title. While Scheffler, McIlroy, and DeChambeau are the clear favorites, the depth of talent in professional golf means that several other players have the potential to surprise. Predicting a major champion is a notoriously difficult task, but identifying golfers with the right combination of form, course fit, and mental fortitude can provide a significant edge.

Here’s a closer look at eight golfers who are garnering attention as potential sleeper picks heading into the 2025 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow:

1. [Golfer 1 Name]: A player known for his exceptional ball-striking and consistent performance, [Golfer 1 Name] has been steadily climbing the world rankings. His ability to hit fairways and greens with regularity makes him a good fit for Quail Hollow. While he may lack the raw power of some of the other contenders, his accuracy and tactical approach could give him an advantage on this challenging course. His recent form has been encouraging, with several top-10 finishes in recent tournaments.

2. [Golfer 2 Name]: A young and hungry player with a flair for the dramatic, [Golfer 2 Name] possesses a natural talent and an unwavering belief in his abilities. He’s a fearless competitor who isn’t afraid to take risks, which could serve him well at a major championship. While his consistency can sometimes be an issue, his high ceiling and aggressive style make him a dangerous contender.

3. [Golfer 3 Name]: A veteran player with a wealth of experience, [Golfer 3 Name] knows what it takes to win on the biggest stage. He’s a master strategist and a precise ball-striker, capable of navigating even the most challenging courses. While he may not be the longest hitter, his course management skills and mental toughness could be invaluable assets at Quail Hollow.

4. [Golfer 4 Name]: A rising star with a powerful game and a strong mental game, [Golfer 4 Name] is quickly making a name for himself in the world of golf. His prodigious length off the tee and his ability to handle pressure make him a serious contender. He has the potential to overpower Quail Hollow and put himself in contention.

5. [Golfer 5 Name]: A player known for his exceptional short game and putting prowess, [Golfer 5 Name] has a knack for getting the ball in the hole. His ability to scramble and save par will be crucial at Quail Hollow, where difficult greens and tight lies can make scoring challenging.

6. [Golfer 6 Name]: A European Tour standout with a growing reputation, [Golfer 6 Name] has the talent and composure to compete with the best in the world. He’s a consistent performer with a well-rounded game, capable of handling the pressure of a major championship.

7. [Golfer 7 Name]: A past champion looking to recapture his former glory, [Golfer 7 Name] has the experience and pedigree to contend at Quail Hollow. While his recent form has been inconsistent, his knowledge of the game and his ability to rise to the occasion make him a threat.

8. [Golfer 8 Name]: A LIV Golf player looking to prove himself against the PGA Tour’s best, [Golfer 8 Name] has the talent and determination to make a statement. He is a proven winner and will be eager to show that he can compete at the highest level.

Please note that BetMGM odds as of May 13 are relevant to the context but the actual odds and names of golfers are not provided here.

The 2025 PGA Championship promises to be a thrilling event, with storylines abound and the potential for unexpected surprises. As the players tee off on Thursday, all eyes will be on Quail Hollow, waiting to see who will emerge as the next champion and hoist the Wanamaker Trophy.

For those looking to follow the action, ESPN will broadcast the first two rounds on Thursday and Friday, offering comprehensive coverage of the tournament’s early stages. ESPN and CBS will then share the broadcast duties for the final two rounds on Saturday and Sunday, providing viewers with wall-to-wall coverage of the weekend’s drama.

In addition to traditional television broadcasts, streaming options will also be available. ESPN+ and Fubo will provide streaming coverage of all four rounds, ensuring that fans can follow the action from anywhere. Paramount+ will also offer streaming coverage during the weekend rounds, giving viewers another way to tune in and watch the world’s best golfers compete for the PGA Championship.

The broadcast schedule is as follows (all times Eastern):

• Thursday: ESPN
• Friday: ESPN
• Saturday: ESPN and CBS
• Sunday: ESPN and CBS

Streaming options:

• ESPN+: All four rounds
• Fubo: All four rounds
• Paramount+: Weekend coverage