Draws and Fades: Ludvig Aberg Stands Out from a Loaded Leaderboard at the Memorial Tournament

After overnight storms softened Muirfield Village Golf Club, the field at the Memorial Tournament, presented by Workday, faced challenging conditions. High winds and thick rough led to high scores, including reigning major winners Wyndham Clark and Brian Harman, who each opened with a 5-over 77.

Scottie Scheffler is just one shot back at 5-under, with Adam Hadwin leading despite a bogey on No. 18. Scheffler's price has shortened from his +360 opener at BetMGM Sportsbook.

Updated Odds to Win the Memorial Tournament (via BetMGM)

• +188: Scottie Scheffler (5-under)
• +550: Xander Schauffele (4-under)
• +700: Collin Morikawa (4-under)
• +1100: Rory McIlroy (2-under)
• +1200: Ludvig Åberg (4-under), Viktor Hovland (3-under)
• +2000: Tommy Fleetwood (3-under)
• +2200: Adam Hadwin (6-under), Corey Conners (5-under)

Scheffler remains a strong contender, but here are some players to consider and others to approach with caution after the opening round:

Draws

Ludvig Åberg (+1200)

After a runner-up finish at the Masters and a knee issue at the Wells Fargo Championship, Ludvig Åberg showed no signs of discomfort at Muirfield Village, carding a 4-under 68. He was second in SG: Putting and seventh in SG: Off-the-Tee. Åberg’s form and current odds make him a compelling pick.

Tom Kim (+5000)

Tom Kim’s 2-under 70 included strong ball-striking, ranking in the top 5 in SG: Off-the-Tee and SG: Tee-to-Green. Despite struggling with putting, Kim’s consistent tee-to-green performance makes him an intriguing high-priced option if he can improve on the greens.

Fades

Xander Schauffele (+550)

Schauffele’s 4-under round was buoyed by his putting, leading the field in SG: Putting despite tee-to-green struggles. His current price is short for someone relying heavily on their short game, especially with the U.S. Open approaching.

Rory McIlroy (+1100)

McIlroy’s round included a rough patch with bogey on No. 11 and double bogey on No. 12, though he finished strong with four birdies in the last six holes. His inconsistency, particularly off the tee, raises concerns about his ability to contend on such a competitive leaderboard.

Conclusion

While Scottie Scheffler remains a strong favorite, Ludvig Åberg and Tom Kim offer value based on their performance and current odds. Conversely, be cautious with Xander Schauffele and Rory McIlroy, who might face challenges maintaining their positions.