Hero World Challenge 2022: Preview, betting tips & how to watch

This time of year might be associated with weaker fields, but there’s no danger of that this week at the Hero World Challenge.

While it’s a small one, just 20 players in the field, there’s some hefty star power on show this week. As of Monday evening, however, Tiger Woods isn’t in the field.

The 15-time major champion withdrew due to plantar fasciitis in his right foot, which he said has made it difficult to walk. He is still due to play at next week’s match, however, as well as the PNC Championship with his son, Charlie.

First things first, though, there’s a stacked field in the Bahamas, that includes Jon Rahm, Tony Finau and Justin Thomas. Defending champion Viktor Hovland is also here, and he’ll be hoping to replicate his form from last year, where he beat Scottie Scheffler by a shot to win. You might remember that event better from Morikawa’s final round 76, which saw him lose a commanding lead.

Despite being just a 20-man field with no cut, there’s still OWGR points up for grabs, as well as a purse of over $3.5m. Although it might be an invitational with a pretty laid-back feel, there’s good reason to play well this week. 

Will Zalatoris was originally part of the field, but the world No. 7 is still out with a back injury. Tournament exemptions have been handed out to Tommy Fleetwood and Kevin Kisner, an invitation you probably don’t want to turn down. Sepp Straka is the late call-up to replace the injured tournament host.

The event has been in Albany since 2015, with Hero sponsoring it since 2014. 

Here’s a closer look at the details ahead of the week…

Hero World Challenge details

Course: Albany, Bahamas

Course stats: 7,414 yards, par 72

Defending champion: Viktor Hovland

Purse: $3,500,000

Winner’s share: $1,000,000

Hero World Challenge betting tips

Here’s a rundown on the who the bookies fancy…

Jon Rahm 13/2

Scottie Scheffler 9/1

Justin Thomas 11/1

Tony Finau 11/1

Xander Schauffele 11/1

Matt Fitzpatrick 14/1

Viktor Hovland 14/1

Sam Burns 16/1

Sung-Jae Im 16/1

Shane Lowry 18/1

The bunkered Bet

Xander Schauffele

Rahm is strong favourite for good reason, but if you want decent value, look to Xander Schauffele. He’s performed well here in the past, and has already notched up some impressive wins this season.

All odds correct at time of publication. Please gamble responsibly.

Hero World Challenge how to watch

The Hero World Challenge is on Sky Sports from Thursday to Sunday this week. Here’s how you can tune in:

Thursday: Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Golf 6.30pm

Friday: Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Golf 6.30pm

Saturday: Sky Sports Golf 5.30pm, Sky Sports Golf 6pm

Sunday: Sky Sports Golf 4pm

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