McIlroy vs Scheffler at the 2025 PGA Championship: field, top players and predictions

The 2025 PGA Championship tees off this Thursday at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, North Carolina, and no storyline looms larger than Rory McIlroy vs Scottie Scheffler.

McIlroy returns to the course where he’s won four times, including a dominant five-shot victory last year. He also comes in newly liberated, having completed the career Grand Slam at the Masters in April. He’s chasing something even rarer now: the calendar-year Grand Slam.

But Scheffler isn’t here to play supporting actor. The world No. 1 just tied the PGA Tour’s 72-hole scoring record in his most recent win, is healthy again, and opens as the betting favorite at +400. This will be his first PGA Championship since finishing T2 in 2023.

• Chamblee sparks LIV controversy ahead of PGA Championship
• Thunderstorms cause chaos at PGA Championship

2025 PGA Championship: favorites and odds

DraftKings’ opening odds give us a clear top tier, including the aforementioned rivals from either side of the pond:

• Scottie Scheffler (+400) – 22% of total bets
• Rory McIlroy (+450) – 14% of bets, entering as the hottest player of the spring... and with Masters relief
• Bryson DeChambeau (+950) – 27% of the money; big hitter + wet forecast = big threat
• Jon Rahm (+1600) – often not popular with bettors but always a danger
• Justin Thomas (+2000) – back at the site of his 2017 major breakthrough

2025 PGA Championship storylines

Many will note that this will be Jordan Spieth’s ninth attempt at the career Grand Slam. He’ll have his emotional backers. Another man looking to make headlines again is Xander Schauffele as he begins his title defense after edging the field at Valhalla last year.

All golfers will be more than aware that the Green Mile, Quail Hollow’s infamous final three holes, could ruin a few late charges. And that makes for exciting viewing.

• Phil Kenyon reveals secrets to help amateurs make more putts
• Eight-time PGA Tour winner set for surgery

DeChambeau is LIV Golf’s best hope and might be the most physically equipped to handle a softened course. He’s thriving in majors again, and his runner-up finish at the 2024 Masters has only boosted public confidence.

Thomas, meanwhile, ended a three-year drought in April and tied for second at the Truist Championship on Sunday. He’s peaking at the right time.

Check out the full updated field at the official PGA Championship website.

In terms of predictions, my heart wants Rory to make history, and is also where my money would go... but don’t be surprised if there’s a dark horse in contention for the Wanamaker Trophy. Maybe Sepp Straka can double up on the back of his Truist triumph.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.