Ludvig Aberg, 0-for-10 in Majors, Is a Top-3 Contender and The Golf World Isn't Ready

Alright, fam! The 2026 U.S. Open is practically teeing off, and if you thought you knew what was coming, you better think again. Shinnecock Hills in Southampton, New York, is about to host another major, starting this Thursday, June 18. And let me tell you, the SportsLine model, the one built by DFS wizard Mike McClure that has unbelievably nailed 17 majors, just dropped its predictions after simulating this tournament 10,000 times. What it found? Absolutely WILD stuff that's gonna turn your betting slips upside down.

The Model Says: Xander Schauffele Out of the Top 5!

First up, let's talk about a name you usually expect to see near the top: Xander Schauffele. This dude had a monstrous 2024, winning two majors, so you'd think he's a lock for contention, right? WRONG. The SportsLine model is calling for a massive stumble, predicting Schauffele to finish squarely outside the top 5. This is a guy you need to fade, according to the computer that's been more accurate than your golf buddy's "can't miss" tip.

Why the cold shoulder for Schauffele? Look, his only win since that epic 2024 season was the 2025 Baycurrent Classic, and honestly, that was against a pretty weak field. He's also been off his game lately, finishing T12 or worse in three of his last four tournaments. And get this: he hasn't even cracked the top 5 in his last five U.S. Open starts. So, yeah, the model isn't high on him against this stacked 2026 field. You heard it here first, straight from the digital oracle: Xander is not your guy this weekend.

From Zero to Hero? Ludvig Aberg's Shocking Surge

Now for the real jaw-dropper. Remember Ludvig Aberg? He's got a major career record of 0 for 10, and he even missed the cut at last year's U.S. Open. Not exactly inspiring confidence, is it? Well, buckle up, because the model sees something different. Aberg, at +2200 odds, is projected as a top-3 contender on the leaderboard! Can you believe it? This is the kind of underdog story that screams "Emerald City magic!"

But before you dismiss it, there's a reason. Aberg has been absolutely red-hot this spring, lighting up the greens with six top-10 finishes in just seven tournaments, stretching from the Arnold Palmer Invitational all the way to the PGA Championship. He's even ranked second on the PGA Tour in total strokes gained. This kid is on a tear, and the model thinks his major drought is about to end in spectacular fashion at Shinnecock Hills. It's a bold call, but this model has the receipts!

So, get ready for an insane U.S. Open. With defending champ J.J. Spaun, 2018 Shinnecock winner Brooks Koepka, and current major champs Rory McIlroy (Masters) and Aaron Rai (PGA Championship) all in the mix, it's gonna be a battle. Scottie Scheffler, the +550 favorite, is chasing that Career Grand Slam, while McIlroy (+1200) hunts his first U.S. Open in 15 years. Will the model's wild predictions hold true? You absolutely gotta tune in to see if Aberg pulls off the unthinkable and if Schauffele really tumbles. This weekend is gonna be epic!

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.