The Sentry 2025 Preview and Free Picks

The Sentry, formerly known as the Sentry of Champions, is the traditional annual opener on the PGA Tour calendar. First held in 1953, this prestigious event has undergone several format changes over the years, but its importance as a backdrop for the new season remains unwavering.

Initially, the tournament was a limited field event, restricted to only those players who had won on the PGA Tour in the previous calendar year. However, beginning in 2024, the qualifying criteria were expanded to include not only the winners of the 2024 PGA Tour tournament but also players who finished in the top 50 of the final 2024 FedEx Cup standings.

The Sentry 2025 – Details

This year’s Sentry 2025 marks a momentous occasion, as it is the first of eight Designated Events on the PGA Tour schedule. These carry elevated purses and prestigious courses, adding a layer of excitement and prestige to the proceedings.

Held at Kapalua’s picturesque Plantation Course in Maui, Hawaii, the Sentry Tournament offers a unique challenge to players. The par 73 layout, designed by the renowned duo of Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, features wide and severely sloped fairways, large Bermuda greens, and significant elevation changes, all while exposed to the ever-present trade winds.

With a total purse of $20,000,000 and a staggering $3,600,000 awaiting the winner, the Sentry Tournament is not only a prestigious title to claim, but also a lucrative opportunity for participants to start their seasons on a high note.

Scottie Scheffler does not participate due to injury.

Scottie Scheffler, the reigning PGA Tour Player of the Year for the third consecutive season, has been forced to delay the start of his 2025 campaign due to an unexpected right-hand injury. The world number one suffered a puncture wound to the palm of his right hand caused by broken glass while preparing dinner on Christmas Day.

According to Blake Smith, Scheffler’s representative, small shards of glass were left in the palm, requiring surgery to remove them. Scheffler has been advised to make a full recovery within three to four weeks. Unfortunately, this setback means he will have to withdraw from the upcoming Sentry Tournament of Champions.

The 26-year-old American had a historic season in 2024, winning six PGA Tour events, including his first major title at the Masters. His next scheduled tournament is the American Express at the end of January, as he aims to return to top form and defend his number-one world ranking.

The Sentry 2025 Betting Odds and Info

The Sentry 2025 – Betting Picks

Leading the field is world #2 Xander Schauffele, fresh off a two-win campaign in 2024. Schauffele’s consistency was remarkable, with 15 top-10 finishes, including runner-up finishes at the Players Championship, Wells Fargo Championship and FedEx St.Jude Championship. His solid all-around game and recent form make him a top contender at Kapalua.

Ludvig Aberg, the No. 5 ranked player, enjoyed a breakthrough year in 2024, racking up nine top-10 results, including runner-up performances at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, Masters Tournament, and BMW Championship. The young Swede’s consistent play and growing confidence could propel him to new heights in 2025, starting at the Sentry.

Hideki Matsuyama, ranked #6, will also be a factor after capturing victories at the Genesis Invitational and FedEx St. Jude Championship last season. Despite a disappointing T58 finish at the Sentry in 2024, Matsuyama’s ball skills and experience on challenging courses make him a dangerous competitor.

Our picks for the Podium are:

1. Morikawa

2. Schauffele

3. Aberg