Welcome to Power Rankings, a weekly feature on SI Golf from our partners at KeyCompete. LIV Golf makes its 2024 debut this week in Mayakoba. Jon Rahm is LIV’s new headliner and also a strong pick to win. Here’s how our model sees the event unfolding this week.
The El Camaleón Golf Club at Mayakoba, designed by Greg Norman, is known for its diverse layout, mixing dense jungle, mangroves and stunning oceanfront holes. The course requires a strategic approach, favoring precision and adaptability over sheer power. Players will need to navigate changing winds, undulating greens and strategically placed hazards. The picturesque but challenging 17th hole, in particular, often plays a crucial role in deciding the outcome.
Here are our top 10 picks this week.
1. Jon Rahm (+400): With his exceptional all-around game and fiery competitiveness, Rahm tops the list in his debut. His ability to handle high-pressure situations and adapt to diverse course layouts makes him a strong favorite.
2. Tyrrell Hatton (+1400): Another LIV newcomer, Hatton is known for his precision and short game. His recent form and consistency put him high in the rankings.
3. Cameron Smith (+1400): Smith's remarkable touch around the greens and prowess in windy conditions are significant advantages here. His laid-back demeanor belies a fierce competitor.
4. Dustin Johnson (+2000): Johnson's experience and effortless power make him a perennial contender. His performance will hinge on his precision and short game, especially on the more technical holes.
5. Bryson DeChambeau (+1400): DeChambeau's unique approach to the game and prodigious driving distance make him a constant threat. His ability to create scoring opportunities on any course lands him among the favorites.
6. Talor Gooch (+1800): He’s been showing steady improvement and has the game to excel at Mayakoba. His solid tee-to-green play will be key in navigating the varied challenges.
7. Brooks Koepka (+2000): Known for his mental toughness and major championship pedigree, Koepka can never be counted out.
8. Adrian Meronk (+2200): An emerging talent and LIV rookie, Meronk has the game to surprise many. His length and improving short game make him a dark horse.
9. Sergio Garcia (+2500): Garcia’s experience and exceptional ballstriking ability are well-suited here. His performance will depend on his putting, which can be streaky.
10. Charles Howell III (+3300): A veteran with a consistent game, Howell’s accuracy and experience could prove advantageous on a course that rewards strategic play. He's also the defending champion
