Rory McIlroy and Hideki Matsuyama: Masters Picks Heading into the Weekend

McIlroy is the current favorite despite being two strokes back of Rose. Trying to complete the career grand slam while winning his first major since 2014, McIlroy faces extraordinary pressure to win his first green jacket.

Share:

Alade-Ọrọ̀ Crow

Hideki Matsuyama of Japan and Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland finish their round on the 18th green during the final round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2023 in Cromwell, Connecticut.

The 2025 Masters Tournament is well underway. Scott Phillips shares his expert picks to win the coveted Green Jacket following Friday’s cut.

As the Masters progresses into the weekend, three of golf’s elite players dominate the leaderboard. Rory McIlroy, Bryson DeChambeau, and Scottie Scheffler are all in pursuit of leader Justin Rose, setting the stage for a thrilling major championship weekend.

Currently, McIlroy is the favorite to win, trailing Rose by two strokes. Desperate to achieve a career grand slam and secure his first major title since 2014, McIlroy faces immense pressure to clinch his first green jacket.

DeChambeau aims for his third major title, having previously won two U.S. Open championships. A victory for Scheffler would mark his second consecutive Masters win and his third green jacket in four years—setting a record for the quickest ascent to three victories.

With two days remaining at the Masters, here are the latest odds to win the green jacket, courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook. Masters bettors can take advantage of FanDuel Sportsbook’s Daily Profit Boost Token promotion available for any Masters wager.

Will Rory finally seize victory at Augusta? Or will a talented field of superstars and seasoned major champions claim golf’s most prestigious title?

Overall Favorite

Rory McIlroy (+330)

All eyes will be on McIlroy this weekend as he aims to make history.

After a shaky start, confidence waned for McIlroy when he recorded two double bogeys on the 15th and 17th holes, ending the first round at even par. Although he initially fell outside the top 10, McIlroy demonstrated resilience.

During the second round, McIlroy revitalized his game, posting an impressive five-under 31, capped by a memorable eagle on the 13th hole following an incredible approach shot. He enters the weekend in his best position in seven years.

Historically, McIlroy has fared well at the Masters after 36 holes, finishing T4 in 2018 and second place in 2016. Despite strong performances, he struggled to maintain that momentum during the weekends in those years.

Although McIlroy has secured two top-five finishes this decade, both were characterized by poor starts followed by strong finishes, including a Sunday 64 that earned him a solo second-place finish in 2022.

If McIlroy can sustain his confidence and improve his driving accuracy (61% fairways hit compared to 73% for the field), he should create ample birdie opportunities to stay competitive.

Golf legends Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player believe this could be the year McIlroy finally claims the Masters title. Will he achieve it?

Longshot

Hideki Matsuyama (+4000)

For those seeking longer odds this weekend, the 2021 Masters champion is an intriguing option. Currently five shots off the lead at -3, Matsuyama delivered a strong second round with a score of -4 after a slow start.

With 86% of fairways and 82% of greens hit through two rounds, Matsuyama’s ball-striking has been impressive, outpacing the field significantly. However, he often struggles with the putter, leading to missed scoring opportunities.

Matsuyama has recorded only six birdies and an eagle this week, indicating a need for more scoring to mount a comeback this weekend.

Known for his ability to make quick birdie runs, Matsuyama has previously won the Sentry Tournament of Champions, FedEx St. Jude, and the Genesis Invitational. His third-round 65 in the 2021 Masters provided him with a comfortable four-shot lead en route to his only major championship victory.

Although he’s playing catch-up, Matsuyama’s recent strong performance and victory at Augusta make him a player to watch closely.

Latest in

2210286371.0

2025 WNBA Draft Fashion: Who Had the Best Fits?

By Alade-Ọrọ̀ Crow
April 15, 2025