This year’s American Century Championship is notable for featuring two defending champions who are both top favorites to win. Stephen Curry, the 2023 winner, and Mardy Fish, the 2024 champion, have entered the tournament and share the role of co-favorites with +240 odds each. Curry did not participate last year as he was away competing in basketball at the Olympics.
Top Contenders and Their Odds
Curry claimed his title in 2023 by sinking an 18-foot eagle putt on the final hole, edging out Fish. Fish responded by taking home the 2024 championship, marking his second victory at the Edgewood Tahoe event. Alongside Curry and Fish, prominent players such as Joe Pavelski (+300), Tony Romo (+450), John Smoltz (+550), Anika Sorenstam (+650), and Mark Mulder (+650) are considered the top rivals this year.
Other Noteworthy Competitors, Including Active NBA Players
The tournament also features current NBA athletes Austin Reaves of the Los Angeles Lakers and Alex Caruso of the Oklahoma City Thunder. Reaves, who finished 13th in his debut last year, holds +1800 odds, while Caruso, recently securing his second NBA title, is listed at +2200. Additional contenders ranked within the top 15 include Derek Lowe (+1600), Taylor Twellman (+1800), Adam Thielen (+2200), and Vinny Del Negro (+2200).
Charles Barkley Positioned at the Bottom; Large Field of 92 Players Compete
Charles Barkley, the basketball Hall of Famer and television analyst, surprisingly ranks near the bottom of the leaderboard with +750,000 odds. A prop bet has been set for Barkley’s finishing position at 65.5 in the field of 92. Last year, Barkley finished 58th, continuing a streak of placing no higher than 74th over the past two decades.
Additional Notable Names Among the Participants
Other familiar figures in the betting markets include NFL quarterbacks Aaron Rodgers (+4,000) and Sam Darnold (+12,500), NBA star Zach LaVine (+20,000), along with San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle (+25,000) and Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (+25,000). Newly crowned NHL champion Matthew Tkachuk holds +30,000 odds, while former Eagles Super Bowl winner Jason Kelce is at +35,000. Actor Miles Teller rounds out the list with +200,000 odds.
Schedule and Format for the 2024 Tournament
The American Century Championship will take place from July 9 to 13, with players competing in a 54-hole stroke play format over three days, Friday through Sunday. This high-profile summer event attracts stars from various sports, making it one of the most anticipated celebrity golf tournaments.
Significance of the Event and Outlook
With two defending champions headlining the competition, the 2024 American Century Championship promises compelling matchups and entertaining moments at Edgewood Tahoe. Stephen Curry’s participation after missing last year adds further intrigue, while the broad field, including active athletes and celebrities, highlights the event’s wide appeal. Observers will watch closely to see if Barkley can improve his standing or if a new contender will emerge to challenge Curry and Fish.