PGA Tour Releases Expert Picks and Prop Bets for 126th U.S. Open

The PGA Tour has unveiled expert picks and prop bet recommendations for the 126th U.S. Open, combining betting analysis with fantasy golf strategy for the 2026 season. The event marks a new evolution for the tour's Expert Picks initiative, which this year incorporates in-tournament rostering features for PGA Tour Fantasy Golf, allowing fans to submit and adjust lineups throughout the tournament.

According to PGA Tour analysts, several players emerge as top selections across both betting and fantasy categories. Will Gray, Senior Manager of TOUR & Golfbet Editorial & Distribution, favors Justin Rose at +120 odds over Si Woo Kim in a head-to-head matchup, citing Kim's inconsistent major championship record. Gray also backs amateur Jackson Koivun to make the cut at -120 odds, noting Koivun's strong college credentials following Auburn's national championship. Chris Breece recommends a parlay of Rory McIlroy and Jon Rahm to finish in the top 10 at +490 odds, while also selecting Ludvig Åberg at +100 over Tommy Fleetwood.

Additional expert recommendations include Jimmy Reinman's pick of Cameron Smith for a top-30 finish at +225 odds, citing Smith's recent T7 finish at Aronimink and rising Data Golf rankings, along with a near-even money bet on young player Ben James to make the cut. These selections reflect a mix of established champions and emerging talent competing in the major championship.

The fantasy game format requires participants to build lineups consisting of four starters (including one captain for bonus points) and two bench players who can be rotated after each round. A key constraint limits each golfer to three uses per segment throughout the tournament. The PGA Tour has opened its free Experts League to public participation, allowing fans to compete against the tour's professional analysts and track their performance against established benchmarks.