USPGA Championship Trends 2011

When it comes to analysing trends for the USPGA Championship we are faced with a difficult task. The final major of the season changes venue each year and with a variety of courses being used trends can’t properly form.

The last time the USPGA Championship visited the Highlands Course at Atlanta Athletic Club was in 2001. David Toms emerged victorious with a tournament record score of 265 but things are very different now.

The biggest change is on the greens, bent grass has been replaced by Bermuda grass, which is much better suited to the warm-season. This allows tournament organisers to dry them out, making the greens much faster and firmer than in 2001. 

With the course able to stretch out to 7,463 yards, for a par 70 it is a bit of a beast. Long hitters with a high ball flights will be at an advantage as they can land shots softly and get them to grip.

To help narrow down the field we have focused on three criteria that could help weed out the champions. He have then listed the top three players in each area.

Top three in the world.
Supposedly the best players on the planet. If the rankings are a true reflection of skill and form then these players should be lively contenders.

1. Luke Donald 14/1
2. Lee Westwood 15/1
3. Martin Kaymer 35/1

Top three USPGA Championship record
Based on average finishing positions. Minimum two starts
Although the venue is different each year the course set up is becoming more consistent. The PGA of America want a tough test of golf and these are the players with the best results over the years.

1. Rory McIlroy 11/1
2. Dustin Johnson 28/1
3. Tiger Woods 25/1

Top three highest ball flighters.
Apex height off the tee as ranked on PGA Tour.
With the firm greens players who hit the ball high will be favoured.

1. JB Holmes 200/1
2. Keegan Bradley 175/1
3. Davis Love III 150/1