The 2025 Zurich Classic of New Orleans takes place at TPC Louisiana starting Thursday, April 24. This event features 80 teams of two in a unique team stroke play format. Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry return as defending champions and the top betting favorites.
The Zurich Classic is the only regular PGA Tour event with a team setup. The format includes two rounds of four-ball and two rounds of alternate shot. The top 33 teams and ties after the second round will advance to the weekend. For golf bettors and PPH bookies, it’s a good time to visit WagerHome and get in the action.
This event has only been a team format since 2017, but it’s already produced some strong winning duos. McIlroy and Lowry are trying to become the first to win this event in back-to-back years. A strong field includes several PGA Tour winners and former champions in new pairings.
Golfers must play smart and support their partners in this event. Chemistry and birdie chances are more important than ever. The four-ball rounds often separate the top teams, while alternate shot rounds test consistency. Bettors can take advantage by studying past team results and course history.
McIlroy/Lowry Preview – Defending the Title Together
Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry enter the week as the defending champs. They won last year at 25-under par and showed strong chemistry in all four rounds. They are the +350 favorites again and the most popular pick to win.
McIlroy is coming off a big win at the Masters. He enters with momentum and strong strokes gained numbers. Lowry ranks well in putting and birdie average, making this a balanced duo for all formats.
They were tied for the lead after Round 1 last year and never lost that position. They scored -11 in four-ball on Thursday and followed up with solid alternate shot play. Their ability to stay steady when other teams falter makes them tough to beat in this format.
This team knows how to score on the par-5 holes and avoid trouble on the tricky holes. They also have experience under pressure and should feel confident coming into the week. McIlroy and Lowry are the only past Zurich Classic winners returning as a team in 2025.
Morikawa/Kitayama Preview – Looking to Bounce Back
Collin Morikawa and Kurt Kitayama return after finishing T-23 last year. They are listed at +1200 and are second on the odds board. They showed potential in four-ball but had problems in alternate shot rounds.
Morikawa is known for great iron play, but putting has hurt him this season. He ranks outside the top 80 in strokes gained: putting. Kitayama has also struggled with approach shots and driving accuracy. The team must improve in alternate shot to contend this year.
In 2024, they shot 70 in both alternate shot rounds. That’s where they fell behind the leaders. Their best ball scores were decent, but not enough to make up the gap. If they fix their rhythm in foursomes, they have a chance to place much higher.
The team is still a threat because of their ball-striking upside. Morikawa’s iron play and Kitayama’s ability to score can work well in best ball. But alternate shot remains their biggest challenge. Bettors looking at this duo should be cautious and monitor early round scores.
Echavarria/Greyserman Preview – Ready to Surprise Again
Nico Echavarria and Max Greyserman are priced around +3000 this week. This team finished T-4 in last year’s Zurich Classic, despite being first-timers at the event. They showed strong chemistry and scored well in all formats.
Greyserman stepped in late last year after a partner switch, but they still managed to finish near the top. Their combined birdie percentage ranks in the top 15 among all teams. Echavarria has five top-10 finishes since their 2024 run, showing improved form.
This duo complements each other well with solid putting and approach skills. They rank high in strokes gained on Bermuda greens, which could give them an edge at TPC Louisiana. With one year of team experience behind them, they could be even better this time.
Bettors looking for value will be watching this team closely. They have shown the ability to go low in best ball and hang in alternate shot. This pairing could deliver a top finish again and possibly contend for the title.
Poston/Mitchell Preview – Teaming Up With Momentum
J.T. Poston and Keith Mitchell come in at +1800 odds. They are teaming up for the first time at this event but both have played well individually in recent weeks. Their strong form and scoring ability make them a team to watch.
Poston has been one of the better putters on tour this season. Mitchell ranks well in strokes gained off the tee. That combo can create a lot of birdie looks in four-ball and give them a shot to post low numbers early.
This pairing hasn’t played together in the Zurich before, but their skills could fit well. Poston’s short game and Mitchell’s driving accuracy make them solid for alternate shot rounds too. They could surprise with a deep run if the chemistry clicks quickly.
Bettors should consider them for top-10 props or DFS lineups. If they get off to a fast start Thursday, they could challenge some of the more experienced teams.
PPH Betting Prediction
McIlroy and Lowry are the team to beat at +350. They have past success, strong form, and a format that fits their game. Their ability to score in four-ball and stay steady in alternate shot gives them a big edge over the field.
If you’re looking for more value, the teams of Greyserman/Echavarria and Poston/Mitchell offer upside. They’ve shown strong stats and have the skills to handle both formats. For bookies, it’s a good week to add more golf options at your sportsbook. Get started with WagerHome to take advantage of this unique event.
Pick: McIlroy/Lowry +350
