2026 Sony Open Picks and Predictions: Targeting Hideki Matsuyama, Maverick McNealy in Hawaii

The 2026 Sony Open in Hawaii teed off as one of the first meaningful events of the PGA Tour season, but the field is noticeably lighter than a typical mid-season event. A number of marquee names are opting to rest or prepare for the year ahead, leaving the door open for others to seize early momentum. At the top of the board is Russell Henley at +1100, followed closely by Ben Griffin and J.J. Spaun, both coming off strong campaign years. Spaun, in particular, enters this tournament off the best season of his career and looks poised to sustain that momentum in Honolulu.

Henley’s position atop the odds reflects both his affinity for this event and his consistency in these conditions. He is a former runner-up at the Sony Open in 2022, finishing just behind Hideki Matsuyama, who also won this event that year. That history suggests Henley knows how to navigate the course’s subtle challenges, including the firm greens and breezy trade winds that often define play at Waialae Country Club. With many of the game’s biggest names absent, this presents a golden opportunity for Henley to finally secure his first win of the new season.

Among the more notable past champions in the field is Hideki Matsuyama, listed at +1900 in the early odds. Matsuyama’s 2022 Sony Open victory came during a breakthrough stretch in his career, and he has proven he can handle both the pressure and the unique conditions in Hawaii. While his overall form has varied in recent years, his success on this course offers bettors a compelling reason to consider him at a reasonable price.

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2026 Sony Open Odds

2026 Sony Open Date, Time, and Where to Watch

• Date: Thursday, January 15th - Sunday, January 18th, 2026
• Time: 12:00 PM ET
• Where to Watch: Golf Channel, ESPN+

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2026 Sony Open Predictions

Russell Henley (+1100) Check out the best odds at DraftKings Sportsbook

Henley is the early favorite for good reason. Beyond his runner-up finish in 2022, he has consistently shown that his game translates well to the demands of the Sony Open layout. Known for his precision ball-striking and short game touch, Henley has the kind of steady formula that holds up well in Hawaii’s unpredictable conditions. If he can keep the ball in play and avoid big numbers, he’s one of the best bets to win his first Sony Open title.

Hideki Matsuyama (+1900) Check out the best odds at FanDuel Sportsbook

Matsuyama’s victory here in 2022 remains one of the marquee wins on his résumé and stands out as evidence he can contend when he’s dialed in. The Japanese star has world class shot making and course management, two qualities that have served him well in Hawaii before. While his current form may not match his peak years, he remains a proven winner with the experience to navigate a spotty leaderboard and contend on Sunday.

Maverick McNealy (+3500) Check out the best odds at DraftKings Sportsbook

At a bigger number, Maverick McNealy represents a strong sleeper pick. McNealy has finished inside the top 10 at the Sony Open before, showing comfort with this layout and competitive course conditions. Off the golf course, he recently celebrated the birth of his first child, an event that often brings fresh motivation and renewed focus for players early in the season. If he harnesses that energy and gets hot with the putter, McNealy has the talent and course history to make a serious run.

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