Masters 2025 Betting Preview: Favorites, Contenders, & Sleeper Picks

It’s April, and for golf fans, that means The Masters Tournament returns for another historic edition at Augusta National in Georgia. 

​As the azaleas bloom and the world’s top golfers gather at Augusta National, the 2025 Masters Tournament promises a blend of tradition and high-stakes competition. With a field of 95 players, including 18 former champions, the quest for the coveted Green Jacket begins this Thursday.

As the tournament approaches, the anticipation among fans and players alike is palpable. The Masters not only signifies the first major of the year but also embodies the rich traditions and challenges that define professional golf. With a blend of seasoned champions and rising stars, the 2025 Masters is set to deliver compelling narratives and unforgettable moments on the hallowed grounds of Augusta National.

Top Contenders and Betting Favorites

Leading the pack is defending champion Scottie Scheffler, who aims to secure his third Green Jacket in four years—a feat achieved only by Jack Nicklaus. Despite a winless season thus far, Scheffler’s consistent performance places him as the favorite with 9/2 odds. ​

SCOTTIE SCHEFFLER NEARLY HOLES OUT. WHAT A SHOT @ForePlayPod pic.twitter.com/Rw16MZUsYq

— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) April 14, 2024

Close on his heels is Rory McIlroy, offered at 13/2 odds. The Northern Irishman seeks to complete his career Grand Slam with a Masters victory, having previously secured wins at the U.S. Open, The Open Championship, and the PGA Championship. McIlroy’s recent triumphs at the Pebble Beach Pro-Am and The Players Championship underscore his formidable form. ​

Other notable contenders include:

• Jon Rahm (14/1): The 2023 Masters champion and LIV Golf participant aims to reclaim glory at Augusta. ​

• Collin Morikawa (16/1): With three consecutive top-ten finishes at the Masters, Morikawa’s precision iron play makes him a strong candidate.

• Ludvig Åberg (16/1): The Swedish sensation, who finished second in his Masters debut last year, continues to impress on the tour. ​

Notable Absences and Returns

Tiger Woods will be absent from this year’s tournament as he recovers from Achilles tendon surgery. His absence marks a significant void, given his storied history at Augusta.

Conversely, Phil Mickelson, a three-time Masters champion, returns with 80/1 odds. While considered a long shot, Mickelson’s experience and past successes at Augusta cannot be overlooked.

Best Bets To Win

​As the 2025 Masters Tournament approaches, we’re looking at the prospects of Rory McIlroy, Min Woo Lee, and Robert MacIntyre. Each brings a compelling narrative to Augusta National, making them players to watch in this year’s quest for the Green Jacket.​

Rory McIlroy: Pursuing the Career Grand Slam

Rory McIlroy, the Northern Irish golfer with four major titles, continues his pursuit of the elusive Green Jacket to complete his career Grand Slam. With seven top-10 finishes at Augusta, including a runner-up position in 2022, McIlroy’s affinity for the course is evident. His recent victories at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and The Players Championship in 2025 have bolstered his confidence and form. Renowned coach Butch Harmon has expressed optimism about McIlroy’s chances, noting that “everything in the universe [is] lined up” for him to succeed. However, McIlroy’s former putting coach, Phil Kenyon, has raised concerns about his technique under pressure, suggesting that balancing technical improvements with competitive play remains a challenge. Despite these mixed opinions, McIlroy stands as a formidable contender with 13/2 odds to win.​

Good morning everyone. It’s Masters week 🌺 pic.twitter.com/GqAeLaHi52

— Rory McIlroy Tracker (@RMTracker) April 7, 2025

Min Woo Lee: A Rising Star with Momentum

Australian golfer Min Woo Lee has been making waves with his recent performances, notably securing his maiden PGA Tour victory at the Houston Open. This win has propelled him into the Masters spotlight, with odds of +5500 reflecting his potential as a dark horse candidate. Lee’s previous outings at Augusta have been promising, achieving two top-25 finishes in three starts. His strengths lie in his impressive driving distance and a refined short game, both crucial assets on Augusta’s challenging layout. Analysts suggest that Lee’s recent form and skill set position him well for a strong showing at the Masters.

Robert MacIntyre: Scotland’s Hopeful with Course Compatibility

Scotland’s Robert MacIntyre returns to the Masters after a brief hiatus, carrying the hopes of his nation. The left-hander from Oban has previously demonstrated his compatibility with Augusta’s design, securing a tie for 12th place in his debut and a tie for 23rd in his subsequent appearance. MacIntyre’s recent form includes four top-11 finishes in his last five starts, indicating a surge in performance. His left-handed play style aligns with the success of past champions like Phil Mickelson and Bubba Watson, who have leveraged similar shot shapes to their advantage at Augusta. With odds of +5500, MacIntyre is viewed as a potential sleeper pick, capable of making a significant impact.

The 2025 Masters presents a stage where seasoned veterans and emerging talents converge in pursuit of golf’s most coveted prize. Rory McIlroy’s quest for the career Grand Slam, Min Woo Lee’s rising momentum, and Robert MacIntyre’s course compatibility and recent form add layers of intrigue to this year’s tournament. As the competition unfolds at Augusta National, these players embody the blend of experience and potential that defines the spirit of the Masters.