Join us as we look ahead to the Sony Open, kicking off from 11 to 14 January at the iconic Waialae Country Club.
The buzz is real with Tiger Woods making a much-anticipated comeback to full competitive golf, adding extra excitement to the first full-field PGA Tour event of 2018 in Hawaii’s picturesque setting. The tournament continues the short but sweet aloha swing.
Held since the roaring ’20s and a staple tour event since 1965, the Sony Open attracts a stellar field, though Dustin Johnson won’t be aiming for a Hawaii double like Justin Thomas did. The quaint and quirky Waialae Country Club offers a tough challenge with its unique course layout.
Sony Open | 11 January – 14 January | Waialae Country Club, Hawaii
The 7,044-yard par 70 course contrasts sharply with the previous week’s lengthier Kapalua course. Shorter yet demanding, it features water hazards on just three holes and is heavily influenced by Hawaii’s unpredictable trade winds. Success here favours precision — players who consistently hit greens and putt with finesse, especially those adept on Bermuda greens like many southern golfers. Power off the tee isn’t a primary factor; for example, Justin Thomas ranked 60th in driving accuracy before his record-setting 59 here last year. Therefore, golfers with impeccable iron play and solid short games are definitely contenders.
Market favourites Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas lead the betting, although Spieth’s odds make him a tough pick at this stage. Thomas, at 10/1, offers great value, especially with his historic PGA Tour record here last year. Dark horse bets like Brian Harman, Mark Leishman, and Kevin Kisner could surprise in this event that somewhat levels the field with its emphasis away from distance.
Past Winners
2017: Justin Thomas (-27)
2016: Fabian Gomez (-20)*playoff
2015: Jimmy Walker (-23)
2014: Jimmy Walker (-17)
2013: Russell Henley (-24)
Outright Winner Odds
Jordan Spieth 5/1, Justin Thomas 8/1, Mark Leishman 14/1, Brian Harman 18/1, Kevin Kisner 20/1
Top Value Bets to Watch
Webb Simpson – To Win 35/1, To Place 15/2
Webb Simpson, the 2012 US Open Champion, has battled away from the ‘one-hit wonder’ tag shared by several peers from that era. He’s rediscovered form and boasts an intriguing record at Waialae with consecutive T13 finishes and making the cut in all eight appearances. After solid early-season performances, he presents a compelling value bet this week.
Charles Howell III – To Win 40/1, To Place 17/2
Howell’s game epitomises consistency without the trophy haul. This season has mixed results but his Waialae form is outstanding — making the cut in every one of 16 attempts with 11 top-15 finishes. That track record in place markets is pure gold for savvy punters.
Luke Donald – To Win 140/1, To Place 30/1
Backing former world number ones always carries risks, yet Luke Donald looks like a bargain in this Ryder Cup year. He was runner-up here in 2007 and impressed with opening rounds two years ago. His performances at similar coastal courses underline his suitability. Recent top 10 finishes further boost his appeal at generous odds.
The Man to Beat – Kevin Kisner – To Win 20/1, To Place 44/10
Kevin Kisner’s reliable ball-striking makes him a strong competitor at 20/1, especially versus the risky Spieth at 5/1. Since 2015’s Heritage playoff, Kisner’s been a model of consistency, contending in courses comparable to Waialae. Recent finishes here and a strong end to last season underscore his credentials as the one to beat.
