Last Updated on April 22, 2024 9:57 pm by Erwin Noguera
The 2024 Zurich Classic of New Orleans is shaping up to be an exciting team event on the PGA Tour. This annual tournament held at TPC Louisiana has a unique format in which players team up in pairs. Known as one of the most “fun” events of the season, the Zurich Classic attracts some big names looking to compete alongside a partner.
One notable player in the field this year is Rory McIlroy. Despite having a disappointing season so far, the former world number one is teaming up with Shane Lowry for this team tournament as he begins preparations for the PGA Championship. With the paired format, McIlroy will have the opportunity to hit some creative shots alongside 2019 Open champion Lowry.
Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele, who won the Zurich Classic in 2022, will want to retake the title. Schauffele is enjoying a good season, taking second place at The Players several weeks ago. While Cantlay has not managed to win recently, he is not far from his best form, with some top-10 results in recent months.
The pair first teamed up in Zurich in 2019, finishing tied for seventh, and improved on that in 2022 by taking the win. Their games complement each other very well, with Schauffele’s consistency and steely play combined with Cantlay’s elite putting and scrambling ability. They will be a formidable duo to take down.
The Course: TPC Louisiana
The Zurich Classic of New Orleans is held annually at TPC Louisiana in Avondale, Louisiana. TPC Louisiana is a par 72 course measuring 7,425 yards.
Pete Dye created the course, which debuted in 2004. It features narrow, tree-lined fairways and small greens that value accuracy and shot-making. On the other hand, water comes into play on several holes, especially on the famous par 3 17th, which features an island green.
TPC Louisiana favors golfers who can hit fairways and greens consistently, but patience and avoiding big mistakes are key to success in this tournament.
The par 5s offer scoring opportunities for players who can reach them in two shots. But the course’s narrow layout and numerous bunkers can easily derail rounds with wayward tee shots or approaches.
2024 Zurich Classic Betting odds – Top Five
1· Schauffele & Cantlay – 6.00
2· Mcllroy & Lowry – 9.00
3· Zalatoris & Theegala – 12.00
4· Morikawa & Kitayama – 17.00
5· Tom Hoge & Maverick McNealy 23
When?
Apr 25 – 28
Where can I watch it?
ESPN and Golf Channel
2024 Zurich Classic of New Orleans Betting Pick
Since this is a team event, it can be difficult to predict an outright winner. However, based on current form and past performance, a few pairs stand out as top contenders.
Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry form an intriguing pairing. McIlroy is one of the best golfers in the world when he is on his game, while Lowry is an excellent putter and short-game wizard. They complement each other very well. If McIlroy plays like he did earlier this season, they could be tough to beat. Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele have proven themselves in this format before. Both are elite talents who thrive in high-pressure situations.
Will Zalatoris and Sahith Theegala make some noise? Zalatoris’ ball striking prowess is well documented, and Theegala emerged as one of the best putters on Tour last season. Other contenders like Collin Morikawa and Kurt Kitayama bring their compelling narratives as close friends looking to break through to win.
Ultimately, what is certain is that we will enjoy an exceptional tournament from start to finish with some of the world’s best golfers in attendance.
Podium Picks
1. Schauffele & Cantlay
2. Zalatoris & Theegala
3. Morikawa & Kitayama
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