The 2025 Open Championship at Royal Portrush is poised to feature the usual top contenders alongside surprising dark horses ready to shake up the competition. Established names like Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, and Bryson DeChambeau headline the event, all aiming for major championship success. While the favorites dominate attention, other hopefuls, including Jordan Spieth, are emerging as strong sleeper picks capable of challenging the status quo.
Scheffler, Rahm, and DeChambeau are all pursuing their first Open victory, whereas McIlroy seeks to secure a second title during his homecoming in Northern Ireland. Beyond these leading figures, more than 150 players are eager to claim the Claret Jug and make golf history. Among the newcomers and established players are young talents like Ludvig Åberg and Viktor Hovland, both targeting their inaugural major triumphs, while last year’s Open champion, Xander Schauffele, looks to return to peak form on links terrain.
Identifying Strong Candidates Among the 2025 Open Sleeper Picks
Picking worthwhile sleeper contenders demands considering their past performance in The Open and recent improvements during the 2025 season. Historical success on links courses and an upward trajectory in form increase a player’s chances to surprise. The Open Championship has famously produced unexpected victors, making it essential to explore beyond the well-known frontrunners for players with long odds and promise.
For bettors, obtaining the best betting odds is crucial when selecting sleepers to maximize potential returns. This approach highlights golfers who may not headline but who possess the skill and recent momentum to contend on Royal Portrush’s challenging course.
Top Sleeper Picks with Odds to Watch
Below are key sleeper selections from DraftKings Sportsbook who could leave a significant mark at the 2025 Open Championship:
1. Jordan Spieth (55-1): Spieth’s recovery from a neck injury that forced him out of the Travelers Championship will be pivotal. When healthy, he is one of the most consistent American golfers at The Open, never having missed a cut in 11 appearances and securing five top-10 finishes, including a 2017 victory. His creative playstyle and adaptability to links golf complement the demands of Royal Portrush. Even amid recent general struggles, Spieth’s top-25 finishes in the last two Opens underscore his resilience and suitability for this event, making him a major storyline contender.
2. Cameron Young (80-1): Young, another American, boasts a strong but shorter history at The Open with two top-10 results, including one runner-up finish in just three starts. After placing fourth at the U.S. Open this season, Young shows signs of regaining form. Known for elevating his game in majors since joining the Tour, he poses a credible threat.
3. Ryan Fox (90-1): Currently enjoying the best season of his career with two PGA Tour wins, New Zealander Ryan Fox offers considerable experience on links courses from his DP World Tour tenure. His ability to combine power and control should serve him well at Royal Portrush. Fox has already recorded two strong major finishes this year, and with confidence high, he could breakthrough into the final weekend spotlight.
4. Dean Burmester (170-1): The South African has a solid record of making cuts and competing well, highlighted by two top-20 finishes in three Opens and a place in the top 10 after 36 holes in 2024. Consistency over four rounds remains a question, but Burmester can post low scores and has previously contended among leaders. At these long odds, his chances are an enticing gamble.
5. Thriston Lawrence (200-1): Known for his erratic but high-ceiling style, Lawrence embodies the risk-and-reward nature of deep sleeper bets. His performance at the 2024 Open, finishing fourth after a strong final round, combined with a recent twelfth-place at the U.S. Open, shows he can compete on links courses. While missing the cut is a possibility if he doesn’t bring his best, his strong finishes in majors and confidence growth make him a compelling wildcard choice.
Why These Sleeper Picks Matter in the 2025 Open Championship
With Royal Portrush presenting a stern test of precision, creativity, and endurance, these sleeper picks emphasize the unpredictability and depth of talent in the 2025 Open field. Jordan Spieth’s blend of experience and recent resilience highlights why he leads the sleeper list, but the emerging threats from players like Cameron Young and Ryan Fox illustrate how challenging the favorites will be. The inclusion of players such as Dean Burmester and Thriston Lawrence further demonstrates that long shots can influence the leaderboard and potentially claim the Claret Jug.
As the tournament unfolds, these contenders could shift the narrative and disrupt traditional expectations. Their performances have implications not only for the outcome at Royal Portrush but also for shaping the competitive landscape of major golf in 2025 and beyond. Observers and bettors alike will keep a close watch on these golfers as they tee off, hoping for a breakout or a signature victory that will cement their legacy in Open Championship history.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Jordan Spieth a millionaire?
A. Since he became a professional athlete, he has been sponsored by Under Armour. He also has partnerships with companies like AT&T, Rolex, and NetJets. His estimated net worth is approximately $120 million.