# Truist Championship: Top 20 Finishers

2026 Truist Championship

Updated: May 10, 2026

Category: Sports

Tags: Golf

HTML: /markets/sports/golf/truist-championship-top-20-finishers/

## Short Answer

**Key takeaway.** Both the **model** and the **market** expect Alex Fitzpatrick to finish in the top 20 at the 2026 Truist Championship, with no compelling evidence of mispricing.

## Key Claims (January 2026)

**- - Rory McIlroy generally outperforms Xander Schauffele in Strokes Gained metrics.** - Rory McIlroy boasts an unparalleled track record at Quail Hollow Club.
- Major analysts identified several dark horse candidates for a top-20 finish.
- Later tee times may reduce scoring efficiency, especially putting performance.
- Akshay Bhatia holds a slight historical edge over Ludvig Aberg at event.
- Player performance during the May 7–10, 2026 championship drives **market** outcomes.

### Why This Matters (GEO)

- AI agents extract claims, not arguments.
- Improves citation probability in summaries and answer cards.
- Enables fact stitching across multiple sources.

## Executive Verdict

**Key takeaway.** **Market** prices at 66c, higher than **56.7%** **model**, implying overvaluation despite Rory McIlroy's unparalleled course record.

### Who Wins and Why

| Outcome | Market | Model | Why |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Kristoffer Reitan | 97.0% | 96.2% | Research does not highlight strong supporting evidence. |
| Webb Simpson | 1.0% | 0.3% | Research does not highlight strong supporting evidence. |
| Andrew Putnam | 8.0% | 3.1% | Research does not highlight strong supporting evidence. |

## Model vs Market

| Outcome | Market Probability | Octagon Model Probability |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Kristoffer Reitan | 97.0% | 96.2% |
| Webb Simpson | 1.0% | 0.3% |
| Andrew Putnam | 8.0% | 3.1% |
| Tommy Fleetwood | 93.0% | 91.1% |
| Adam Scott | 28.0% | 16.4% |
| Alex Fitzpatrick | 98.0% | 97.5% |
| Rory McIlroy | 29.0% | 25.2% |
| Ludvig Aberg | 66.0% | 56.7% |
| Matt Fitzpatrick | 13.0% | 5.8% |
| Si Woo Kim | 5.0% | 1.8% |
| Cameron Young | 98.0% | 97.5% |
| Gary Woodland | 52.0% | 40.2% |
| Justin Rose | 7.0% | 2.7% |
| Hideki Matsuyama | 1.0% | 0.3% |
| Justin Thomas | 95.0% | 93.6% |
| Chris Gotterup | 62.0% | 51.9% |
| Sepp Straka | 15.0% | 6.9% |
| Akshay Bhatia | 14.0% | 6.3% |
| Sam Burns | 2.0% | 0.7% |
| Ben Griffin | 2.0% | 0.7% |
| Rickie Fowler | 86.0% | 82.1% |
| Max Homa | 4.0% | 1.4% |
| Xander Schauffele | 5.0% | 1.8% |
| Alex Smalley | 12.0% | 5.2% |
| Sudarshan Yellamaraju | 44.0% | 31.5% |
| Kurt Kitayama | 86.0% | 82.1% |
| Viktor Hovland | 24.0% | 13.2% |
| Corey Conners | 47.0% | 34.7% |
| Tom Hoge | 1.0% | 0.3% |
| Daniel Berger | 4.0% | 1.4% |
| Patrick Cantlay | 79.0% | 73.1% |
| Ryan Fox | 1.0% | 0.3% |
| David Lipsky | 51.0% | 39.1% |
| Jordan Spieth | 36.0% | 23.5% |
| Matthew McCarty | 90.0% | 87.2% |
| Sungjae Im | 93.0% | 91.1% |
| Matt Wallace | 17.0% | 8.2% |
| J.J. Spaun | 89.0% | 85.9% |
| Ryan Gerard | 1.0% | 0.3% |
| Keegan Bradley | 12.0% | 5.2% |
| Harris English | 36.0% | 23.5% |
| Alex Noren | 22.0% | 11.7% |
| Brian Campbell | 11.0% | 4.6% |
| Tony Finau | 20.0% | 10.2% |
| Taylor Pendrith | 11.0% | 4.6% |
| Andrew Novak | 17.0% | 8.2% |
| Jhonattan Vegas | 5.0% | 1.8% |
| Nicolai Hojgaard | 95.0% | 93.6% |
| Nicolas Echavarria | 22.0% | 11.7% |
| Min Woo Lee | 6.0% | 2.2% |
| Nick Taylor | 73.0% | 65.5% |
| Sam Stevens | 1.0% | 0.3% |
| Jacob Bridgeman | 65.0% | 55.5% |
| Denny McCarthy | 1.0% | 0.3% |
| Ricky Castillo | 16.0% | 7.6% |
| Robert MacIntyre | 7.0% | 2.7% |
| Jason Day | 2.0% | 0.7% |
| Aldrich Potgieter | 1.0% | 0.3% |
| Lucas Glover | 51.0% | 39.1% |
| Sahith Theegala | 5.0% | 1.8% |
| Harry Hall | 69.0% | 60.5% |
| J.T. Poston | 38.0% | 25.4% |
| Mackenzie Hughes | 19.0% | 9.5% |
| Brian Harman | 6.0% | 2.2% |
| Pierceson Coody | 2.0% | 0.7% |
| Michael Kim | 4.0% | 1.4% |
| Bud Cauley | 44.0% | 31.5% |
| Ryo Hisatsune | 18.0% | 8.9% |
| Maverick McNealy | 21.0% | 10.9% |
| Chandler Blanchet | 26.0% | 14.8% |
| Patrick Rodgers | 12.0% | 5.2% |
| Austin Smotherman | 10.0% | 4.1% |

- Expiration: June 7, 2026

## Market Behavior & Price Dynamics

This market demonstrates a consistent upward trend, beginning at a 56.0% probability and climbing to a current price of 66.0%. The price traded within a wide range, from a low of 51.0% to a high of 88.0%. The most significant and sustained price increase appears to have occurred during the tournament itself, which ran from May 7 to May 10. The price moved from 58.0% at the start of the event to 66.0% by its conclusion. This price action suggests the market was reacting in real-time to the golfer's performance, with positive play leading to a steady increase in the perceived probability of a top-20 finish. The peak of 88.0% likely corresponds to a point during the tournament when the player's position was particularly strong.

Total trading volume exceeded 36,000 contracts, indicating significant liquidity and trader interest. Volume patterns show a notable increase on May 7, coinciding with the start of the tournament, which suggests a high degree of conviction as traders took positions based on the event getting underway. The low point of 51.0% may have acted as an early support level before the upward trend took hold. Overall, the market sentiment was clearly bullish and grew stronger as the event progressed. The price chart reflects increasing confidence that one of the tournament favorites was performing well enough to secure the top-20 finish required for the market to resolve to YES.

## Significant Price Movements

### Outcome: Akshay Bhatia

#### 📈 May 10, 2026: 8.0pp spike

Price increased from 6.0% to 14.0%

**What happened:** The most probable driver for the 8.0 percentage point spike was Akshay Bhatia's strong performance leading into May 10, where he stood tied for 12th after the second round, placing him comfortably within the top 20 finishers [[^]](https://dailypioneer.com/news/slug-lite/akshay-bhatia-moves-closer-to-top10-at-truist?year=2026). This positive outlook likely fueled optimism early on May 10 before his third-round results fully emerged. However, his subsequent 4-over 75 in the third round on May 10 caused him to drop significantly to tied for 37th place [[^]](https://heavy.com/sports/golf/pga-truist-championship-2026-payouts-leaderboard/), which would typically lead to a price decline. No social media activity was identified as a driver for this price movement, indicating social media was irrelevant.

#### 📉 May 09, 2026: 56.0pp drop

Price decreased from 62.0% to 6.0%

**What happened:** The provided web research does not identify a primary driver for a 56.0 percentage point drop in Akshay Bhatia's prediction market for a Top 20 finish on May 09, 2026. On the contrary, Bhatia shot a seven-under 63 on that date, placing him in a share of third after the first round of the Truist Championship, a performance that would typically increase, not decrease, his odds of a Top 20 finish [[^]](https://www.newsdrum.in/sports/akshay-bhatia-shoots-63-for-promising-start-at-truist-championship-9050706). No relevant social media activity, traditional news, or market structure factors that could explain such a decline were found in the available sources [[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/tournaments/2026/truist-championship/R2026480)[[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/tournaments/2026/truist-championship/R2026480/leaderboard?player=60386)[[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/article/news/betting-profile/2026/truist-championship/akshay-bhatia-pga-tour-betting-stats-truist-championship-2026). Social media was irrelevant, as no posts were identified to cause or accelerate the alleged price movement.

#### 📈 May 08, 2026: 22.0pp spike

Price increased from 51.0% to 73.0%

**What happened:** The primary driver of the 22.0 percentage point price spike on May 08, 2026, was likely Akshay Bhatia's strong initial performance in the Truist Championship. He started the tournament by carding a three-under 68 in the first round, placing him in a tie for 13th [[^]](https://latest.dekoder.com/Akshay-Bhatia-Shines-at-Prestigious-Truist-Champio-a5f3064b58064c7fa4aabfea7be29c3f), which significantly increased his perceived likelihood of a Top 20 finish. This positive development likely drove market sentiment and the price spike on May 08, prior to his subsequent slide to a tied 37th position by the end of Saturday's play [[^]](https://www.rediff.com/sports/report/im-leads-truist-mcilroy-chases-bhatia-near-top-10/20260509.htm). No relevant social media activity was found in the provided sources; thus, it is irrelevant as a driver for this specific price movement.

#### 📈 May 07, 2026: 26.0pp spike

Price increased from 34.0% to 60.0%

**What happened:** The primary driver of the price spike was likely traditional news coverage, specifically an article titled "Akshay Bhatia Shines at Prestigious Truist Champio" [[^]](https://latest.dekoder.com/Akshay-Bhatia-Shines-at-Prestigious-Truist-Champio-a5f3064b58064c7fa4aabfea7be29c3f). This positive headline, released during or just after the first three rounds of the tournament where Bhatia posted scores of 68, 70, and 74 [[^]](https://latest.dekoder.com/Akshay-Bhatia-Shines-at-Prestigious-Truist-Champio-a5f3064b58064c7fa4aabfea7be29c3f), likely generated significant optimism regarding his potential for a Top 20 finish on May 07, 2026. This news appeared to coincide with the price move, signaling a favorable outlook for the golfer. Social media was irrelevant to this movement, as no related activity was found.

### Outcome: Keegan Bradley

#### 📉 May 05, 2026: 10.0pp drop

Price decreased from 48.0% to 38.0%

**What happened:** The provided sources do not identify a primary driver for a 10.0 percentage point drop in Keegan Bradley's odds for a Top 20 Finish at the Truist Championship on May 05, 2026. FOX Sports scorecard data for the 2026 Truist Championship indicates Bradley finished T12 (score -4) [[^]](https://www.foxsports.com/golf/scorecard?id=4822&player=keegan-bradley), an outcome that would typically increase, not decrease, the likelihood of a top-20 finish. While Keegan Bradley is reported to have tied for 49th at the Cadillac Championship on May 5, 2026, this event is distinct from the Truist Championship, and the source explicitly states it does not provide a catalyst for the specified odds drop [[^]](https://www.rotowire.com/betting/golf/player/keegan-bradley-odds-749). Based on the available information, social media, traditional news, or market structure factors cannot be identified as the primary driver for this market movement.

## Contract Snapshot

This market resolves to Yes if Alex Fitzpatrick finishes in the top 20 (including ties) in the 2026 Truist Championship; otherwise, it resolves to No. Special settlement conditions apply if the golfer doesn't participate: if he forfeits, withdraws, or doesn't participate prior to teeing off, the market resolves to Fair Market Price; if this occurs after teeing off, it resolves to No. The market opened May 4, 2026, at 4:10 PM EDT, and closes after the event or by June 6, 2026, at 8:00 PM EDT, with payouts projected 5 minutes after closing.

## Market Discussion

The market discussion reveals a strong consensus that several golfers, including Alex Fitzpatrick, Kristoffer Reitan, and Cameron Young, are highly likely to achieve a Top 20 finish in the Truist Championship, with their "Yes" contracts trading at very high probabilities. Traders are primarily expressing confidence in "Yes" outcomes, with some actively seeking other potential players to add to their "Top 20" predictions. No significant arguments or viewpoints supporting "No" outcomes were observed.

## Market Data

| Contract | Yes Bid | Yes Ask | Last Price | Volume | Open Interest |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Akshay Bhatia | 12% | 16% | 14% | $19,067.73 | $16,272.26 |
| Alex Fitzpatrick | 98% | 99% | 98% | $64,478.96 | $42,299.95 |
| Alex Noren | 13% | 20% | 22% | $7,869.62 | $7,449.62 |
| Andrew Novak | 13% | 19% | 17% | $7,421.37 | $7,421.37 |
| Andrew Putnam | 2% | 16% | 8% | $58 | $48 |
| Aldrich Potgieter | 0% | 9% | 1% | $3,561.64 | $3,561.64 |
| Adam Scott | 26% | 28% | 28% | $68,913.31 | $63,288.39 |
| Alex Smalley | 10% | 17% | 12% | $16,473.93 | $12,787.87 |
| Austin Smotherman | 0% | 5% | 10% | $133 | $128 |
| Brian Campbell | 0% | 9% | 11% | $7,864.42 | $7,498.42 |
| Bud Cauley | 43% | 46% | 44% | $1,614.28 | $1,589.79 |
| Ben Griffin | 0% | 41% | 2% | $18,375.91 | $17,918.67 |
| Brian Harman | 6% | 10% | 6% | $2,459.17 | $2,449.17 |
| Cameron Young | 98% | 99% | 98% | $26,030.92 | $22,776.58 |
| Chandler Blanchet | 0% | 8% | 26% | $674.14 | $674.14 |
| Corey Conners | 39% | 45% | 47% | $12,648.93 | $12,186.14 |
| Chris Gotterup | 61% | 64% | 62% | $20,825.75 | $16,642.77 |
| Daniel Berger | 0% | 8% | 4% | $12,113.57 | $12,113.57 |
| David Lipsky | 53% | 56% | 51% | $11,693.99 | $9,311.21 |
| Denny McCarthy | 0% | 24% | 1% | $4,133.2 | $4,133.2 |
| Gary Woodland | 51% | 52% | 52% | $25,918.94 | $25,058.33 |
| Harris English | 33% | 35% | 36% | $8,730.23 | $8,496.75 |
| Harry Hall | 69% | 72% | 69% | $2,824 | $2,757.18 |
| Hideki Matsuyama | 0% | 10% | 1% | $24,353.95 | $23,885.95 |
| Jacob Bridgeman | 70% | 75% | 65% | $4,252.5 | $3,939.74 |
| Jason Day | 0% | 58% | 2% | $3,664.52 | $3,261.7 |
| J.T. Poston | 35% | 41% | 38% | $2,809.19 | $2,755.19 |
| Justin Rose | 0% | 9% | 7% | $24,460.08 | $23,288.35 |
| J.J. Spaun | 89% | 92% | 89% | $10,290.92 | $8,304.2 |
| Jordan Spieth | 35% | 37% | 36% | $11,216.48 | $10,021.51 |
| Justin Thomas | 88% | 96% | 95% | $21,127.24 | $18,860.13 |
| Jhonattan Vegas | 0% | 10% | 5% | $6,326.31 | $5,965.31 |
| Keegan Bradley | 11% | 17% | 12% | $9,334.24 | $7,284.55 |
| Kurt Kitayama | 88% | 90% | 86% | $13,404.77 | $12,167.54 |
| Kristoffer Reitan | 97% | 99% | 97% | $5,368 | $4,356 |
| Ludvig Aberg | 66% | 73% | 66% | $36,651.1 | $35,364.84 |
| Lucas Glover | 47% | 50% | 51% | $3,310.43 | $3,069.66 |
| Matt Fitzpatrick | 11% | 14% | 13% | $36,471.74 | $34,336.26 |
| Max Homa | 1% | 8% | 4% | $18,012.84 | $17,244.72 |
| Mackenzie Hughes | 0% | 19% | 19% | $2,642.27 | $2,589.94 |
| Michael Kim | 0% | 7% | 4% | $1,747.24 | $1,712.24 |
| Min Woo Lee | 5% | 12% | 6% | $5,734.73 | $4,856.23 |
| Matthew McCarty | 83% | 89% | 90% | $10,993.2 | $8,252.47 |
| Maverick McNealy | 0% | 3% | 21% | $1,051.29 | $746.29 |
| Matt Wallace | 15% | 19% | 17% | $10,469.97 | $10,162.97 |
| Nicolas Echavarria | 14% | 21% | 22% | $5,868.29 | $5,615.96 |
| Nicolai Hojgaard | 95% | 98% | 95% | $6,070.43 | $5,102.87 |
| Nick Taylor | 70% | 73% | 73% | $4,842.62 | $3,304.28 |
| Patrick Cantlay | 80% | 82% | 79% | $12,077.28 | $11,146.32 |
| Pierceson Coody | 2% | 4% | 2% | $1,842.26 | $1,797.26 |
| Patrick Rodgers | 0% | 6% | 12% | $207.72 | $184.05 |
| Ricky Castillo | 12% | 18% | 16% | $4,112.16 | $4,107.16 |
| Rickie Fowler | 80% | 84% | 86% | $18,341.94 | $16,835.73 |
| Ryan Fox | 0% | 29% | 1% | $11,777.12 | $11,777.12 |
| Ryan Gerard | 0% | 27% | 1% | $9,521.5 | $9,479.5 |
| Ryo Hisatsune | 13% | 17% | 18% | $1,402.65 | $1,321.88 |
| Robert MacIntyre | 5% | 9% | 7% | $4,034.58 | $3,982.57 |
| Rory McIlroy | 26% | 29% | 29% | $37,703.73 | $28,144.08 |
| Sam Burns | 0% | 29% | 2% | $19,041.78 | $13,457.78 |
| Sungjae Im | 93% | 96% | 93% | $10,906 | $8,812.53 |
| Sam Stevens | 0% | 24% | 1% | $4,811.28 | $4,735.74 |
| Sepp Straka | 12% | 18% | 15% | $19,354.43 | $17,389.65 |
| Sahith Theegala | 0% | 9% | 5% | $3,045.26 | $3,029.98 |
| Sudarshan Yellamaraju | 43% | 46% | 44% | $16,253.89 | $15,850.73 |
| Tony Finau | 19% | 25% | 20% | $7,790.29 | $7,475.23 |
| Tommy Fleetwood | 90% | 93% | 93% | $74,194.74 | $67,304.2 |
| Tom Hoge | 0% | 20% | 1% | $12,557.72 | $12,557.72 |
| Taylor Pendrith | 12% | 15% | 11% | $7,429.7 | $6,619.11 |
| Viktor Hovland | 23% | 24% | 24% | $12,689.43 | $12,218.87 |
| Webb Simpson | 0% | 2% | 1% | $179.41 | $174.41 |
| Si Woo Kim | 0% | 5% | 5% | $27,313.93 | $22,447.96 |
| Xander Schauffele | 0% | 9% | 5% | $17,051.77 | $15,710.45 |

## How do top contenders Rory McIlroy and Xander Schauffele compare on key 'Strokes Gained' metrics during the 2026 PGA Tour season leading into the Truist Championship?

Rory McIlroy Strokes Gained: Total | 1.785 [[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/player/28237/rory-mcilroy/stats) |
Xander Schauffele Strokes Gained: Total | 1.388 [[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/player/48081/xander-schauffele/stats)[[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/article/news/betting-profile/2026/truist-championship/xander-schauffele-pga-tour-betting-stats-truist-championship-2026) |
Xander Schauffele Strokes Gained: Putting | 0.284 [[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/player/48081/xander-schauffele/stats)[[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/article/news/betting-profile/2026/truist-championship/xander-schauffele-pga-tour-betting-stats-truist-championship-2026) |

**Rory McIlroy generally outperforms Xander Schauffele in overall Strokes Gained metrics**

Rory McIlroy generally outperforms Xander Schauffele in overall Strokes Gained metrics. Strokes Gained statistics quantify a golfer's performance against the PGA Tour average, with positive values indicating above-average play [[^]](https://www.golfwrx.com/524752/do-you-actually-understand-strokes-gained-stats-heres-a-breakdown/)[[^]](https://skygolf.com/pages/strokes-gained-explained)[[^]](https://help.18birdies.com/article/547-what-does-strokes-gained-mean-for-my-game). Leading into the Truist Championship, McIlroy recorded a higher Strokes Gained: Total and a superior Strokes Gained World Rating compared to Schauffele as of May 3, 2026 [[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/player/28237/rory-mcilroy/stats)[[^]](https://www.owgr.com/strokes-gained-world-rating)[[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/player/48081/xander-schauffele/stats)[[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/article/news/betting-profile/2026/truist-championship/xander-schauffele-pga-tour-betting-stats-truist-championship-2026).

McIlroy excels off the tee and with his irons, but struggles with putting. As of May 3, 2026, Rory McIlroy's Strokes Gained: Total was 1.785, and he ranked 2nd globally with a Strokes Gained World Rating of 2.36902 [[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/player/28237/rory-mcilroy/stats)[[^]](https://www.owgr.com/strokes-gained-world-rating). He led the PGA Tour in Strokes Gained: Off-the-Tee, averaging 0.799 strokes gained, and ranked 10th in Strokes Gained: Approach-the-Green with 0.748 strokes gained [[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/player/28237/rory-mcilroy/stats)[[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/article/news/betting-profile/2026/masters-tournament/rory-mcilroy-pga-tour-betting-stats-masters-tournament-2026). However, McIlroy's putting was a notable challenge, recording a Strokes Gained: Putting average of -0.148, which placed him 108th on the Tour [[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/player/28237/rory-mcilroy/stats)[[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/article/news/betting-profile/2026/masters-tournament/rory-mcilroy-pga-tour-betting-stats-masters-tournament-2026).

Schauffele shows strong overall play, particularly in putting and around the green. Xander Schauffele achieved a robust Strokes Gained: Total of 1.388, ranking 7th on the PGA Tour, and his Strokes Gained World Rating was 1.97911, placing him 10th globally as of May 3, 2026 [[^]](https://www.owgr.com/strokes-gained-world-rating)[[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/player/48081/xander-schauffele/stats)[[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/article/news/betting-profile/2026/truist-championship/xander-schauffele-pga-tour-betting-stats-truist-championship-2026). Schauffele demonstrated proficiency off the tee (0.493 Strokes Gained: Off-the-Tee, 19th on Tour) and with his irons (0.623 Strokes Gained: Approach-the-Green, 11th on Tour) [[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/player/48081/xander-schauffele/stats)[[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/article/news/betting-profile/2026/truist-championship/xander-schauffele-pga-tour-betting-stats-truist-championship-2026). Significantly, Schauffele's putting was a key advantage, averaging 0.284 Strokes Gained: Putting, ranking him 42nd on Tour [[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/player/48081/xander-schauffele/stats)[[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/article/news/betting-profile/2026/truist-championship/xander-schauffele-pga-tour-betting-stats-truist-championship-2026). He also showed strength around the green, ranking 3rd in Scrambling [[^]](https://golf.com/lifestyle/pga-championship-2026-early-betting-guide-3-picks/) and averaging 0.038 Strokes Gained: Around-the-Green [[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/article/news/betting-profile/2026/truist-championship/xander-schauffele-pga-tour-betting-stats-truist-championship-2026).

## What is the consensus among major golf analysts, such as the panels at Golf Digest and ESPN, regarding 'dark horse' candidates for a top-20 finish in the 2026 field?

Golf Digest Top 20 Picks | Gary Woodland, Akshay Bhatia, Kurt Kitayama (May 6, 2026 publication [[^]](https://www.golfdigest.com/story/truist-championship-picks-2026)) |
PGA Tour Top 20 Targets | Alex Fitzpatrick, Matt McCarty [[^]](https://beta.pgatour.com/article/news/sleeper-picks/2026/05/05/fantasy-golf-advice-tips-picks-best-bets-truist-championship-quail-hollow-club-akshay-bhatia-jason-day) |
Top 20 Finish Definition | Finish top 20 including ties [[^]](https://polymarket.com/event/2026-truist-championship-top20)[[^]](https://robinhood.com/us/en/prediction-markets/golf/events/truist-championship-top-20-finishers-may-07-2026/)[[^]](https://kalshi.com/category/sports/golf/truist-championship/top-20-finishers) |

**Major golf analysts identified 'dark horse' candidates for the 2026 Truist Championship**

Major golf analysts identified 'dark horse' candidates for the 2026 Truist Championship. Major golf analysts, including panels from Golf Digest and the PGA Tour, have provided insights into players considered potential 'dark horse' candidates for a top-20 finish in the 2026 Truist Championship. Golf Digest's May 6, 2026 publication specifically listed Gary Woodland (80-1), Akshay Bhatia (63-1), and Kurt Kitayama (50-1) as "Sleepers/Dark Horses" for the event. These selections were based on their profiles as credible candidates for winning-level or near-winning performances, which is considered a prerequisite for achieving a top-20 ranking [[^]](https://www.golfdigest.com/story/truist-championship-picks-2026).

The PGA Tour also listed sleeper picks, but ESPN's data is unavailable. The PGA Tour's own "Sleeper Picks: Truist Championship" additionally identified Alex Fitzpatrick and Matt McCarty as "Top 20" targets. Their inclusion was justified by their recent form and favorable matchup considerations, making them strong candidates to achieve a top-20 outcome [[^]](https://beta.pgatour.com/article/news/sleeper-picks/2026/05/05/fantasy-golf-advice-tips-picks-best-bets-truist-championship-quail-hollow-club-akshay-bhatia-jason-day). However, the available research does not contain information regarding ESPN's consensus on 'dark horse' candidates for a top-20 finish in the 2026 field.

A top-20 finish includes ties in prediction **market** resolutions. For prediction **market** purposes, the resolution for a "Truist Championship: Top 20 Finishers" event is defined as "Yes" if the listed player finishes among the top 20, including any ties, at the 2026 Truist Championship [[^]](https://polymarket.com/event/2026-truist-championship-top20)[[^]](https://robinhood.com/us/en/prediction-markets/golf/events/truist-championship-top-20-finishers-may-07-2026/)[[^]](https://kalshi.com/category/sports/golf/truist-championship/top-20-finishers).

## How might the final tee time pairings for Thursday and Friday impact the performance of players like Patrick Cantlay and Sam Burns at the 2026 Truist Championship?

Putting Make Rate (Noon-2 p.m.) | 50% for 4-8 foot putts [[^]](https://golf.com/news/bumpy-poa-greens-affect-pga-tour/) |
Patrick Cantlay Thursday Tee Time | 12:15 p.m. ET [[^]](https://golf.com/news/2026-truist-championship-thursday-tee-times-round-1-pairings/) |
Sam Burns Friday Tee Time | 11:33 a.m. ET [[^]](https://golf.com/news/2026-truist-championship-friday-tee-times-round-2/) |

**Later tee times may reduce scoring efficiency, particularly putting performance**

Later tee times may reduce scoring efficiency, particularly putting performance.
The research indicates that later tee times for golfers like Patrick Cantlay and Sam Burns might have impacted their scoring efficiency, particularly their putting performance [[^]](https://golf.com/news/2026-truist-championship-thursday-tee-times-round-1-pairings/)[[^]](https://golf.com/news/2026-truist-championship-friday-tee-times-round-2/)[[^]](https://golf.com/news/bumpy-poa-greens-affect-pga-tour/). For the 2026 Truist Championship, Patrick Cantlay's Thursday Round 1 tee time was 12:15 p.m. ET, while both players were scheduled for 11:33 a.m. ET on Friday for Round 2 [[^]](https://golf.com/news/2026-truist-championship-thursday-tee-times-round-1-pairings/)[[^]](https://golf.com/news/2026-truist-championship-friday-tee-times-round-2/). The overall **market** resolution for this event is determined by a top 20 finish including ties [[^]](https://lmsh7.ggff.net/event/2026-truist-championship-top20).

ShotLink data correlates later tee times with decreased putting make rates.
A ShotLink-based analysis for the first two rounds revealed a correlation between tee times and putting make rates for 4-8 foot putts [[^]](https://golf.com/news/bumpy-poa-greens-affect-pga-tour/). The data showed a make rate of **52.3%** for tee times before 9 a.m., **52.2%** for tee times between 9-11 a.m., and a noticeable decrease to **50%** for tee times scheduled between noon-2 p.m. [[^]](https://golf.com/news/bumpy-poa-greens-affect-pga-tour/).

Specific tee times align with data suggesting potential performance impacts.
This trend suggests that later tee times can reduce scoring efficiency, which in turn could lower the odds of players achieving a top-20 finish [[^]](https://golf.com/news/bumpy-poa-greens-affect-pga-tour/). Applying this to the players, Patrick Cantlay's Thursday tee time fell into the noon-2 p.m. window, while both his and Sam Burns' Friday tee time was within the 9-11 a.m. window, implying a potential influence on their performance [[^]](https://golf.com/news/2026-truist-championship-thursday-tee-times-round-1-pairings/)[[^]](https://golf.com/news/2026-truist-championship-friday-tee-times-round-2/)[[^]](https://golf.com/news/bumpy-poa-greens-affect-pga-tour/).

## What evidence from past tournaments at Quail Hollow Club supports the market's high expectations for Rory McIlroy to secure a Top 20 finish in 2026?

Top 20 finishes at Quail Hollow | 10 [[^]](https://www.fanduel.com/research/each-golfer-s-past-results-at-quail-hollow-entering-the-2025-pga-championship-rory-mcilroy) |
Wins at Quail Hollow | 4 (2010, 2015, 2021, 2024) [[^]](https://www.fanduel.com/research/each-golfer-s-past-results-at-quail-hollow-entering-the-2025-pga-championship-rory-mcilroy)[[^]](https://sports.betmgm.com/en/blog/pga/how-many-times-has-rory-mcilroy-won-at-quail-hollow-golf-club-bm10/)[[^]](https://www.sportskeeda.com/golf/news-how-many-times-rory-mcilroy-won-quail-hollow-club-exploring-win-record)[[^]](https://sports.betmgm.com/en/blog/pga/quail-hollow-past-winners-bm16/)[[^]](https://www.joxfm.com/2026/05/06/rory-mcilroy-in-familiar-and-winning-territory-at-quail-hollow/) |
Course Record | 61 (2015 Wells Fargo Championship) [[^]](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=14_rKUY6VGs) |

**Rory McIlroy boasts an unparalleled track record at Quail Hollow Club**

Rory McIlroy boasts an unparalleled track record at Quail Hollow Club. His consistent performance at the course is evidenced by ten top-20 finishes in his appearances there [[^]](https://sports.betmgm.com/en/blog/pga/quail-hollow-past-winners-bm16/)[[^]](https://www.fanduel.com/research/each-golfer-s-past-results-at-quail-hollow-entering-the-2025-pga-championship-rory-mcilroy). McIlroy holds the record for most wins at Quail Hollow, having secured victories four times in 2010, 2015, 2021, and most recently in 2024 [[^]](https://sports.betmgm.com/en/blog/pga/quail-hollow-past-winners-bm16/)[[^]](https://www.fanduel.com/research/each-golfer-s-past-results-at-quail-hollow-entering-the-2025-pga-championship-rory-mcilroy)[[^]](https://sports.betmgm.com/en/blog/pga/how-many-times-has-rory-mcilroy-won-at-quail-hollow-golf-club-bm10/)[[^]](https://www.sportskeeda.com/golf/news-how-many-times-rory-mcilroy-won-quail-hollow-club-exploring-win-record)[[^]](https://www.joxfm.com/2026/05/06/rory-mcilroy-in-familiar-and-winning-territory-at-quail-hollow/). He also established the course record by carding an outstanding 61 during the 2015 Wells Fargo Championship [[^]](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=14_rKUY6VGs). McIlroy's deep connection to the course is further highlighted by his statement that the tournament initiated his PGA Tour career [[^]](https://www.joxfm.com/2026/05/06/rory-mcilroy-in-familiar-and-winning-territory-at-quail-hollow/)[[^]](https://deadspin.com/rory-mcilroy-in-familiar----and-winning----territory-at-quail-hollow/)[[^]](https://athlonsports.com/golf/rory-mcilroy-quail-hollow-presser).

McIlroy's current form and career milestones amplify expectations for 2026. Having recently completed his career Grand Slam with a Masters victory in 2025, McIlroy is in excellent form and highly motivated [[^]](https://sports.betmgm.com/en/blog/pga/how-many-times-has-rory-mcilroy-won-at-quail-hollow-golf-club-bm10/)[[^]](https://www.joxfm.com/2026/05/06/rory-mcilroy-in-familiar-and-winning-territory-at-quail-hollow/)[[^]](https://deadspin.com/rory-mcilroy-in-familiar----and-winning----territory-at-quail-hollow/)[[^]](https://www.pgachampionship.com/news-media/articles/rory-mcilroy-a-man-alone). This strong momentum positions him as a clear favorite to achieve a record fifth win at Quail Hollow in 2026, further supporting the **market**'s high expectations for him to secure a Top 20 finish [[^]](https://sports.betmgm.com/en/blog/pga/quail-hollow-past-winners-bm16/)[[^]](https://www.fanduel.com/research/each-golfer-s-past-results-at-quail-hollow-entering-the-2025-pga-championship-rory-mcilroy)[[^]](https://sports.betmgm.com/en/blog/pga/how-many-times-has-rory-mcilroy-won-at-quail-hollow-golf-club-bm10/)[[^]](https://www.joxfm.com/2026/05/06/rory-mcilroy-in-familiar-and-winning-territory-at-quail-hollow/)[[^]](https://deadspin.com/rory-mcilroy-in-familiar----and-winning----territory-at-quail-hollow/)[[^]](https://www.pgachampionship.com/news-media/articles/rory-mcilroy-a-man-alone).

## How do the historical performances of Ludvig Aberg and Akshay Bhatia at long, challenging courses on the PGA Tour compare ahead of the 2026 Truist Championship?

Akshay Bhatia Market Listing | 59¢ [[^]](https://robinhood.com/us/en/prediction-markets/golf/events/truist-championship-top-20-finishers-may-07-2026/) |
Ludvig Åberg Market Listing | 55¢ [[^]](https://robinhood.com/us/en/prediction-markets/golf/events/truist-championship-top-20-finishers-may-07-2026/) |
Bhatia 2026 Strokes Gained Total | 1.360 (ranked 9th) [[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/player/56630/akshay-bhatia/stats?deviceId=2e914fde-c7b0-45d2-9ca4-db91e27dbe2d) |

**Ahead of the 2026 Truist Championship, Akshay Bhatia holds a slight historical edge at the event, though both players are closely valued in prediction markets**

Ahead of the 2026 Truist Championship, Akshay Bhatia holds a slight historical edge at the event, though both players are closely valued in prediction markets. For the upcoming championship, Bhatia is listed at 59¢ and Ludvig Åberg at 55¢ on a partner **market** page [[^]](https://robinhood.com/us/en/prediction-markets/golf/events/truist-championship-top-20-finishers-may-07-2026/). Historically, Bhatia has a marginally better record at the Truist Championship, finishing T46 (-2) in 2025 and T42 (+5) in 2024. In comparison, Åberg's sole appearance resulted in a T60 (+1) finish in 2025 [[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/article/news/betting-profile/2026/truist-championship/ludvig-aberg-pga-tour-betting-stats-truist-championship-2026)[[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/article/news/betting-profile/2026/truist-championship/akshay-bhatia-pga-tour-betting-stats-truist-championship-2026).

The challenging Quail Hollow course will test both players' current form in 2026. The 2026 Truist Championship will be held at Quail Hollow, a demanding par-71 course spanning 7,583 yards, which was identified as the second major’s third toughest course on Tour last year [[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/article/news/latest/2026/05/06/pga-tour-this-week-truist-championship-quail-hollow-facts-and-figures-whos-playing-how-to-watch-purse)[[^]](https://www.si.com/golf/2026-truist-championship-preview-field-course-history-tee-times-how-to-watch). In the current 2026 PGA Tour season, Åberg has demonstrated strong form with T5 finishes at THE PLAYERS and the Valero Texas Open, alongside a T21 at the Masters [[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/player/52955/ludvig-aberg/results). Bhatia's 2026 season also includes notable performances such as a win at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, a T13 at THE PLAYERS, and a T16 at the RBC Heritage [[^]](https://www.cbssports.com/golf/players/3103851/akshay-bhatia/tournament-results/).

Bhatia's 2026 statistics reveal strengths and weaknesses for challenging courses, particularly in putting and off-the-tee performance. When evaluating performance on long courses, Bhatia's 2026 profile shows strong overall strokes gained (SG: Total 1.360, 9th on PGA Tour) and elite putting (SG: Putting 0.848, 3rd). However, his off-the-tee performance is comparatively weaker (SG: Off-the-Tee -0.220, 124th) [[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/player/56630/akshay-bhatia/stats?deviceId=2e914fde-c7b0-45d2-9ca4-db91e27dbe2d). Comparable detailed performance proxy data for Ludvig Åberg specifically regarding his play on long, challenging courses was not provided in the bound facts.

## What Could Change the Odds

**The primary catalysts for prediction markets revolve around player performance during the Truist Championship 2026, which is scheduled from May 7–10, 2026, at Quail Hollow Club [[^]](https://www.pgatour.com/article/news/betting-dfs/2026/betting-profile/pga-tour-betting-odds-stats-truist-championship-2026)[[^]](https://www.truistchampionship.com/fans/schedule-of-events).** For a listed player to trigger a "Yes" resolution in the "PGA Tour: Truist Championship Top 20" **market**, they must finish in the Top 20, including ties, based on PGA Tour results [[^]](https://polymarket.com/event/2026-truist-championship-top20). Roster changes, such as forfeits or withdrawals before teeing off, could also directly affect **market** payouts; for finishing-position-style markets, these resolve to fair **market** value, while for winner/leader markets, they resolve to "No" [[^]](https://robinhood.com/us/en/prediction-markets/golf/events/truist-championship-top-20-finishers-may-07-2026/)[[^]](https://kalshi.com/category/sports/golf/truist-championship/top-20-finishers).

**Beyond direct tournament play, the market's implied probabilities, such as "Tommy Fleetwood" at 90% and "Rory McIlroy" at 88% on Polymarket, can shift with new information [[^]](https://polymarket.com/event/2026-truist-championship-top20).** A critical deadline for Polymarket's Top 20 **market** is May 16, 2026, at 8:00 PM ET; if final results are not announced by this time, the **market** will resolve to "No" [[^]](https://polymarket.com/event/2026-truist-championship-top20).

## Key Dates & Catalysts

- **Expiration:** June 07, 2026
- **Closes:** June 07, 2026

## Decision-Flipping Events

- The primary catalysts for prediction markets revolve around player performance during the Truist Championship 2026, which is scheduled from May 7–10, 2026, at Quail Hollow Club [^] [^] .
- For a listed player to trigger a "Yes" resolution in the "PGA Tour: Truist Championship Top 20" **market**, they must finish in the Top 20, including ties, based on PGA Tour results [^] .
- Roster changes, such as forfeits or withdrawals before teeing off, could also directly affect **market** payouts; for finishing-position-style markets, these resolve to fair **market** value, while for winner/leader markets, they resolve to "No" [^] [^] .
- Beyond direct tournament play, the **market**'s implied probabilities, such as "Tommy Fleetwood" at **90%** and "Rory McIlroy" at **88%** on Polymarket, can shift with new information [^] .

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## Historical Resolutions

**Historical Resolutions:** 20 markets in this series

**Outcomes:** 0 resolved YES, 17 resolved NO

**Recent resolutions:**

- KXPGATOP20-ONMBC26-ROS: NO (May 09, 2026)
- KXPGATOP20-ONMBC26-JEP: NO (May 09, 2026)
- KXPGATOP20-ONMBC26-HEN: NO (May 09, 2026)
- KXPGATOP20-ONMBC26-NIH: NO (May 09, 2026)
- KXPGATOP20-ONMBC26-JAH: NO (May 09, 2026)

## Disclaimer

This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, legal, or trading advice.
Prediction markets involve risk of loss. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
We are not affiliated with Kalshi or any prediction market platform. Market data may be delayed or incomplete.

### Data Sources & Model Transparency

**Data Sources:** Octagon Deep Research aggregates information from multiple sources including news, filings, and market data.

**Freshness:** Analysis is generated periodically and may not reflect the latest developments. Verify critical information from primary sources.

## Attribution Policy

When quoting, summarizing, or reproducing Octagon AI content, attribute it to Octagon AI and link to the Octagon source URL: https://octagonai.co/markets/sports/golf/truist-championship-top-20-finishers
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