With the 2025 PGA Championship fast approaching, golf fans and bettors everywhere are eagerly searching for the best PGA Championship picks at Quail Hollow. This year’s major promises intense competition, plenty of storylines, and opportunities to make informed fantasy and betting decisions. Below, we break down the top contenders, trending names, and value bets to help guide your picks for one of golf's most exciting weeks.

Quail Hollow: A Familiar Yet Divisive Stage

Quail Hollow Club has become a regular fixture for top-tier events. Its demanding layout rewards powerful drivers and those with sharp iron play. Experts often refer to it as Rory McIlroy’s personal playground, given his dominating history at this venue. Yet, Quail Hollow is not without controversy—players and golf insiders have different takes on its character. For a deeper dive into Quail Hollow’s reputation and why it draws both criticism and admiration, read this in-depth feature by Yahoo Sports.

Key PGA Championship Picks for 2025

Rory McIlroy: The Undisputed Favorite

Rory McIlroy remains the consensus top pick. His incredible record at Quail Hollow includes four victories and the lowest scoring average in PGA Tour history for this course. Fresh from a Masters victory, McIlroy combines confidence, course familiarity, and recent form to make him an elite fantasy and betting option. His ability to shape shots and dominate par 4s makes him the standout among this year’s PGA Championship picks.

Justin Thomas: A Resurgent Contender

After winning the PGA Championship at Quail Hollow in 2017, Justin Thomas is back in form. He has shown exceptional improvement in his iron and wedge game, climbing the strokes gained rankings. Two consecutive high finishes leading up to the tournament, including a victory at Harbour Town, have made him a popular choice among experts. If his hot putting continues, Thomas will be tough to beat.

Scottie Scheffler and Bryson DeChambeau: Power Players to Watch

Scottie Scheffler’s consistency in majors and recent runaway win at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson make him a virtual lock for another top-10 finish. He leads the PGA Tour in strokes gained approach, making him one of the safest picks. Bryson DeChambeau stands out for his ability to overpower Quail Hollow and his exceptional putting stats at this venue. According to PGA.com’s expert predictions, DeChambeau’s conversion rate from 10 to 15 feet on these tricky greens is unheard of at nearly 64%.

Dark Horses and High-Value Bets

While favorites often get the spotlight, tournaments at Quail Hollow can favor first-time winners or surprise performers. Tony Finau and Denny McCarthy are attractively priced long shots. Keith Mitchell is another name to watch, well-known for strong opening rounds and a low scoring average on this course. For those seeking value, Patrick Reed’s short game gives him an advantage on Quail’s tough greens, and recent showings suggest he could easily sneak into the top 10.

For more expert insights and comprehensive betting tips, visit ESPN's expert picks and roundtable breakdown, featuring predictions, odds, and unique player props for this year’s event.

Course Trends and What to Expect at Quail Hollow

Quail Hollow’s length and subtle redesigns have further favored the game’s biggest hitters. Players with solid tee-to-green stats have an edge, particularly on long par 4s and demanding finishing holes—the Green Mile is famous for deciding championships. As noted by several analysts, past winners at this course have leveraged driving distance and approach precision. Look to players who thrive under major pressure and have a proven ability to handle tough setups.

Final Thoughts: Making Your PGA Championship Picks

The best PGA Championship picks combine recent form, course history, and an ability to handle the spotlight. While Rory McIlroy leads the way, Justin Thomas, Scottie Scheffler, and Bryson DeChambeau are all worthy selections. For those who love surprises, don’t overlook dark horses like Keith Mitchell or Denny McCarthy.

Stay updated throughout the week and check multiple expert opinions before locking in your fantasy or betting plays. With Quail Hollow’s mix of familiarity and challenge, making sharp picks could be the difference between an ordinary and a memorable PGA Championship experience.