Let’s take an exciting look ahead to the Genesis Open, happening from 15 to 18 February at the famed Riviera Country Club.
The PGA Tour shifts about 300 miles down the Californian coastline from Pebble Beach to Los Angeles for the prestigious finale of the ‘West Coast Swing’. Starting out as the Los Angeles Open, this tournament has evolved through the decades into the esteemed Genesis Open we know today.
All eyes will undoubtedly be on Tiger Woods as he aims to conquer one of the few courses that have challenged his legendary skills. Alongside him, the cream of the golfing world assembles, making this the most remarkable field of the season so far.
Genesis Open | 15 February – 18 February | Riviera Country Club, California
Riviera first hosted the Los Angeles Open way back in 1929. This will mark the 55th time the event is held here. Known as one of ‘Hogan’s Alleys’—alongside Colonial—the Riviera is a tight, tree-lined course favouring skilled shot makers. Its characteristics closely resemble Augusta, known for its challenging but fair conditions. Over the years, Riviera has stretched over 7,300 yards, benefiting the longer hitters. Bubba Watson is a two-time winner here, and Dustin Johnson is the defending champion.
While Dustin Johnson defends his title, his recent dramatic collapse at Pebble Beach makes his 5/1 odds a tricky prospect. More appealing picks include Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas, with strong European challengers like Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood also in the mix. Golfing veterans Phil Mickelson and Paul Casey bring course experience, and as Ted Potter showed last week, surprises are always on the cards on the PGA Tour.
Past Winners
2017: Dustin Johnson (-17)
2016: Bubba Watson (-15)
2015: James Hahn (-6)*playoff
2014: Bubba Watson (-15)
2013: John Merrick (-11)*playoff
To Win Outright
Dustin Johnson 5/1 | Jordan Spieth 12/1 | Rory McIlroy 12/1 | Justin Thomas 18/1 | Phil Mickelson 22/1
Value Bets
Paul Casey – To Win 25/1, To Place 11/2
Though he hasn’t claimed a tour win since 2009, Paul Casey’s steady striking prowess makes him a prime pick for each-way punters. A top 10 finish at Pebble Beach and a string of consistent results highlight his reliability. Moreover, he’s returning to Riviera where he narrowly lost a playoff in 2015. His recent form at Pebble Beach bodes well for his chances this week.
Alex Noren – To Win 45/1, To Place 19/2
The nine-time European Tour winner Alex Noren may not be a household name yet, but the Swedish ace has adapted impressively to the PGA Tour. Following a playoff loss at the Farmers and strong showing in Phoenix, his excellent ball striking could see him emerge as a contender at Riviera despite it being his debut here.
Luke List – To Win 125/1, To Place 25/1
Among the longer odds, Luke List stands out as a great ball striker with improving iron play. His putting inconsistency might be overlooked here, especially given the example of previous winners with similar stats. Having performed well midway through the event on his debut two years ago, he could surprise again.
The Man to Beat – Phil Mickelson: To Win 22/1, To Place 48/10
‘Lefty’ put in an incredible effort with a tied 2nd last week and another top 5 in Phoenix. These back-to-back top finishes mark the best run he’s had since 2013. With 19 of his 42 PGA Tour wins on the West Coast and an impeccable record at Riviera (never missing the cut in eight starts), Mickelson is undoubtedly the top contender. His recent scrambling skills show he’s ironing out prior mistakes.
Written by Damien Kayat for @Hollywoodbets
