LIV Golf
Hatton and Vincent Set Pace at Valderrama
Tyrrell Hatton and Scott Vincent have seized control of Andalucia after a blistering opening 36 holes, both sitting at 4-under par. Hatton’s 67 and Vincent’s matching score have them two clear of Thomas Detry, who carded 68 to sit 3-under. The Real Club Valderrama is proving scoreable for those hitting their marks early, though a congested leaderboard suggests the chase is far from over. Six players are bunched at 2-under, keeping this tournament genuinely competitive heading into Round 2.
Our Pre-Tournament Pick
Jon Rahm, our pre-event selection, has made a sluggish start with a 73 to sit 2-over par. He’s adrift of the leaders but still very much in this tournament. Valderrama can be unforgiving early, and Rahm’s experience on these greens is a long-term asset. At 2-over after 36 holes with two rounds remaining in a 72-hole LIV format, he’s not out of the picture, though the window has tightened considerably.
Who’s in Contention
Hatton and Vincent are the clear frontrunners at 4-under, with Hatton favourited at 4/1. Vincent sits at 10/1 with the market, a reasonable price for a co-leader on a course where one hot round can shift everything. Thomas Detry, one shot back at 3-under, is 10/1 as well and represents genuine value given the compact nature of this leaderboard.
The 2-under cohort is where the mid-field value lurks. Sergio Garcia (9/1), David Puig (9/1), Branden Grace (16/1), and Cameron Smith (16/1) are all within striking distance. Garcia and Puig, in particular, know Valderrama intimately and could exploit the back nine if conditions allow.
Round 2 Betting Angles
Hatton and Vincent will face the scrutiny that comes with leading. Both shot 67s, implying excellent control off the tee and conversion on par-fours. Watch whether they can sustain that precision or if fatigue creeps in. Valderrama punishes missed fairways ruthlessly.
Detry’s position is intriguing. One shot adrift and trending upwards, a round in the 67-68 range pushes him into genuine contention and makes his 10/1 increasingly attractive. The same applies to Garcia and Puig, who’ve both made steady starts and have the local knowledge to navigate Round 2.
Rahm’s challenge is immediate. He needs a low round to claw back towards the leaders and restore confidence. Two rounds remain, however, and Valderrama’s back nine can deliver birdies to those who’ve found their rhythm.
Our Updated Pick
Odds: 10/1 – bet365
Detry’s 68 in Round 1 keeps him in touch at 3-under, just one shot adrift of the leaders. With two rounds to come in this 72-hole format and Valderrama’s greens rewarding precision, he’s positioned perfectly to make a move. The 10/1 reflects genuine value for a player firmly in contention and trending in the right direction.
Top 5 After Round 1
| Pos | Player | R1 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tyrrell Hatton | 67 | -4 |
| 2 | Scott Vincent | 67 | -4 |
| 3 | Thomas Detry | 68 | -3 |
| 4 | Sergio Garcia | 69 | -2 |
| 5 | Branden Grace | 69 | -2 |
Like This? Get More Picks Free
Weekly free bets, odds picks and betting guides โ straight to your inbox.