Power Rankings: Look for Last Week's Top Players to Stay Hot at Sony Open

Welcome to Power Rankings, a new weekly feature on SI Golf from our partners at KeyCompete. This week the PGA Tour’s 2024 Hawaiian swing returns to Waialae Country Club for the Sony Open, where a 144-man field—including 20 of the current top 50 in the world—is set to take on the 7,044-yard, par-70 course. Among the storylines: Will Zalatoris makes his return to a full PGA Tour event following a mostly lost 2023 after back surgery. And Gary Woodland makes his return following successful brain surgery.

Course Analysis: Waialae Country Club

Waialae Country Club, known for its strategic layout and breathtaking vistas, is a course that demands precision and tactical acumen. The blend of long and short holes coupled with the subtle undulations of Bermuda greens add up a comprehensive test. Players will need to navigate a variety of challenges, including strategically placed bunkers and the occasional gusts of wind that are common on the Hawaiian coastline.

Key Stat for the Sony Open

Historically, players participating in the Sentry one week prior to the Sony have had success at Waialae. Since 2014, 80% of the winners here had warmed up at the Sentry.

KeyCompete Power Rankings

(Current odds from the SI Sportsbook)

1. Chris Kirk (+2500): Fresh off a stellar performance last week, Kirk is a favorite. His impressive record at Waialae, with two recent top-3 finishes, makes him a strong contender.

2. Corey Conners (+2500): Despite a moderate showing last week, Conners's affinity for Waialae and consistent top finishes here in recent years position him as a serious challenger.

3. Sahith Theegala (+3000): Theegala, after a near-win last week, is in prime form. His ascendancy in the golf world suggests a breakthrough might be imminent.

4. Russell Henley (+1800): A previous champion at Waialae and runner-up in 2022, Henley's fondness for this course makes him a top contender.

5. Matt Fitzpatrick (+1800): Making his debut here, Fitzpatrick’s high OWGR and formidable short game could see him adapt quickly and contend.

6. Brian Harman (+2000): Harman's recent form is impressive, but his mixed record at Waialae is a point of contention. But he can't be discounted given his current momentum.

7. Byeong Hun An (+3500): An’s limited experience at Waialae is balanced by a strong performance in his sole appearance and a solid showing last week.

8. Si Woo Kim (+3500): The defending champion faces a challenge to replicate his success amidst recent struggles, but his talent is undeniable.

9. Ludvig Aberg (+1600): Aberg, despite a rocky start in Hawaii, showcased his potential with a remarkable final round. His inexperience at Waialae is a hurdle he's well-equipped to overcome.

10. Eric Cole (+2800): The 2023 PGA Tour Rookie of the Year, Cole has been on a consistent upward trajectory. His quest for a win at Waialae is a storyline full of potential.

Honorable Mention: Matt Kuchar (+5000): Kuchar’s love for Waialae and his past success here, including a win in 2019, make him a dark horse capable of surprising many.