The PGA Tour continues this week as we head to TPC Craig Ranch in Texas for the annual CJ Cup. Check out our full preview and betting tips for the event below.
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PGA Tour CJ Cup Betting Tips
TPS Craig Ranch, Thursday 1st - Sunday 4th May
The 2025 CJ Cup Byron Nelson is set to tee off from May 1–4 at TPC Craig Ranch in McKinney, Texas. This event, a staple on the PGA Tour since 1944, continues to honor the legacy of the legendary Byron Nelson while showcasing top-tier golfing talent. With a substantial purse of $9.9 million and 500 FedExCup points up for grabs, the tournament promises high-stakes competition.
The Field
Leading the field is Scottie Scheffler, the world number one and Texas native, who is seeking his first win of the 2025 season. Despite a winless streak this year, Scheffler's consistent performance, including a recent T8 finish at the RBC Heritage, positions him as a strong contender on his home turf.
Other notable players include Jordan Spieth, another Texas native with a strong track record on Tom Weiskopf-designed courses, and Sungjae Im, known for his consistency. Taylor Pendrith, the defending champion, returns to defend his title after securing the top prize in 2024.
The Course
TPC Craig Ranch, hosting the CJ Cup Byron Nelson since 2021, is a par-71 course spanning 7,569 yards. Located in McKinney, Texas, the course features Zoysia grass fairways and Bentgrass greens, offering a premium playing experience.
The course demands strategic play, with wide fairways that encourage aggressive drives but also require precision to navigate the strategically placed bunkers and water hazards. The smooth, fast greens challenge players' putting skills, making for an exciting test of all aspects of the game.
Weather conditions in Texas can be unpredictable, with potential for swirling winds that add an extra layer of complexity. Players who can adapt quickly and maintain composure will have a distinct advantage. Overall, TPC Craig Ranch offers a balanced test that rewards thoughtful, patient golf.
Betting Tips
Si Woo Kim ($33/Top 30 $1.90)
Si Woo Kim is a strong contender at the 2025 CJ Cup Byron Nelson thanks to both recent form and course history. He finished runner-up at TPC Craig Ranch in 2023 (22-under) and followed it with a T13 in 2024 (17-under), proving he thrives on this layout. Coming off a strong showing at the RBC Heritage where he held the 54-hole lead, Kim arrives in Texas with momentum. Pairing that with familiarity and past success at this venue, he’s well-positioned to challenge for the title.
Michael Thorbjornsen ($91/Top 40 $2.20)
For a little more value this week, I like Michael Thorbjornsen. He enters the 2025 CJ Cup Byron Nelson riding a wave of momentum and looking every bit ready to make a statement in his tournament debut. The 23-year-old former Stanford standout narrowly missed his first PGA Tour win just two weeks ago, finishing solo second at the Corales Puntacana Championship, only one shot behind the winner. He kept the pedal down the following week at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans, teaming up with fellow Cardinal alum Karl Vilips to post a T4 finish.
