Move over, Scottie Scheffler. There’s a new favorite in town at the 2026 Genesis Invitational, and his name is Rory McIlroy. After the first round of the prestigious PGA Tour event at Riviera Country Club, McIlroy has emerged as the top pick among sportsbooks.
Heading into the tournament, all eyes were on world No. 1 golfer McIlroy, who was the clear betting favorite. But after an impressive performance on the course, world No. 2 McIlroy has taken over the top spot in the odds list.
The Northern Irishman started the day with a bang, sinking a birdie on the first hole. He continued to dominate, hitting six birdies and an eagle on his way to a 6-under 65 round. McIlroy’s stellar performance has put him in a prime position for the rest of the tournament.
It’s no surprise that McIlroy has quickly become the favorite among sportsbooks. The 32-year-old has a stellar track record at the Genesis Invitational, finishing in the top five in each of his last three appearances. He is also coming off a strong performance at the Farmers Insurance Open, where he finished tied for third.
But it’s not just his recent form that has put McIlroy at the top of the odds list. He has been a consistent force on the PGA Tour for over a decade, with four major championships and 28 total wins under his belt. McIlroy’s talent and experience make him a formidable opponent for any golfer on the course.
While McIlroy’s first-round performance has certainly caught the attention of sportsbooks, he is not the only one to watch out for at the Genesis Invitational. Other top contenders include world No. 3 Jon Rahm, who finished just one stroke behind McIlroy with a 5-under 66 round. Defending champion Adam Scott also had a strong start, finishing with a 4-under 67.
But McIlroy’s dominance on the course has made him the clear favorite among fans and experts alike. His precision and power off the tee, combined with his impeccable short game, make him a force to be reckoned with. And with his recent switch to a new coach, McIlroy seems to have found his groove and is ready to take on the competition.
As the tournament continues, all eyes will be on McIlroy to see if he can maintain his lead and capture his first Genesis Invitational title. But regardless of the outcome, there’s no denying that McIlroy has once again proven himself as one of the top golfers in the world.
So, move over Scottie Scheffler, the new favorite has arrived. Rory McIlroy has taken over the top spot at the Genesis Invitational and is ready to show the world why he is the best in the game. With his impressive performance in the first round, McIlroy has set the bar high for himself and his competitors. It’s going to be an exciting tournament, and we can’t wait to see what McIlroy has in store for us next.