Experts shift focus to Ludvig Åberg as 2026 PGA Championship unfolds at Aronimink
CBS Sports analysts identify the Swede as the primary contender to hoist the Wanamaker Trophy, citing elite ball-striking and consistent recent finishes
The 2026 PGA Championship is underway at Aronimink Golf Club in Philadelphia, with CBS Sports experts predicting a shift in the hierarchy of favourites. While the field boasts an extraordinary 156-man roster, the consensus among analysts has moved away from the defending champion. Ludvig Åberg is now identified as the primary pick to win, holding odds of 20-1, based on his elite ball-striking and improving short game since March.
Reigning champion Scottie Scheffler remains a top contender, though his performance this week has been notably slower than his usual dominance. Currently ranked second or tied for second on the leaderboard, Scheffler is described as being ahead of schedule compared to last season, yet his failure to lead the board early has tempered expectations for an immediate victory. Despite this, experts maintain he is locked as a Top 10 finisher and could still secure his second consecutive Wanamaker Trophy if he adjusts his start.
Six-time major winner Rory McIlroy enters the tournament fresh off a second straight green jacket victory, yet his form has been inconsistent. While his game is generally on point, his driving accuracy has been poor, and he exited his Tuesday practice round early due to a blister on his right pinky toe. This injury forced the Northern Irishman to terminate his round after completing only three holes, raising questions about his ability to breeze through the field as he seeks a third major championship in two seasons.
The absence of two golfing legends marks a significant change for the event. Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson will not compete, a decision that underscores their starkly different personal circumstances. This absence signifies the first time since Woods turned professional that neither star has played in a PGA Championship, leaving a void in the field that analysts say will be filled by a new generation of contenders.
Other significant names are vying for attention, with Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm eager to prove their success extends beyond their respective circuits. Experts debate who represents the better complete player between the two, though concerns remain regarding DeChambeau's short game and distance control under pressure. Meanwhile, Cameron Young is highlighted as a strong contender following a dominant 2026 season that included victories at The Players Championship and the Cadillac Championship.
Sleeper picks and veteran performances also feature in the expert predictions. Rickie Fowler is named a potential surprise at 69-1 after three straight top 10 finishes in signature events, while Stewart Cink, the vice captain for the 2027 Ryder Cup, is predicted to make the first page of the leaderboard. The tournament is expected to be a birdie-fest, playing into the hands of Åberg, who has few peers when it comes to putting birdies on the card.
