Russell Henley Leads Competitive Field at 2026 Sony Open

The 2026 PGA Tour season begins this week at the prestigious Sony Open in Honolulu. This event is set to take place at the historic Waialae Country Club, which opened its doors before Hawaii became the 50th state of the United States. A competitive field of 120 players will compete, including ten of the top 25 players in the official world rankings.

Leading the charge is Russell Henley, who enters the tournament as the betting favorite and the highest-priced player in daily fantasy sports (DFS) formats. The lineup features a mix of former champions, graduates from the Korn Ferry Tour, and seasoned professionals eager to start the year on a high note. Notable players joining Henley include J.J. Spaun, the reigning U.S. Open champion, Hideki Matsuyama, a former Masters champion, and Collin Morikawa, who has previously won both the PGA Championship and the Open Championship. Defending champion Nick Taylor aims to become the first back-to-back winner since Jimmy Walker in 2014 and 2015.

An exciting development in the lead-up to the event is the anticipated return of Brooks Koepka to the PGA Tour, although he will not participate until the Farmers Insurance Open later this month.

Understanding the course dynamics is crucial for success this week. Factors such as driving accuracy, putting performance from various distances, and strokes gained around the green will be critical considerations for players. Given that many competitors are entering the new year making swing adjustments and testing new equipment, past performances at Waialae may not carry as much weight.

Key Betting Insights and DFS Recommendations

For those considering betting options, Collin Morikawa stands out at odds of +2200. He has shown solid performances in previous Sony Opens, finishing T21 and T7 in his last appearances while gaining significant strokes on approach. Although he has not secured a victory since the ZOZO Championship in 2023, Morikawa’s potential to contend early in the season could present a valuable opportunity for bettors.

Another player to watch is Aaron Rai, priced at +4000. While his history at the Sony Open is less impressive, his recent form, including a victory in Abu Dhabi, suggests he could surprise the field. Improving his putting will be essential, as he has struggled in that area recently.

Additionally, Nico Echavarria is an intriguing option at +4500, having finished second at the Sony Open last year. His improving game and ability to perform well on the greens make him a contender worth considering.

On the DFS side, Henley, priced at $10,300, is a solid cash game option despite his elevated cost. His previous win at this venue and strong showings against top competitors highlight his potential value. Ben Griffin ($10,100) is also a strong candidate, having demonstrated exceptional ball-striking ability and a recent victory that boosts his confidence.

Players like Hideki Matsuyama ($9,700) and J.J. Spaun ($9,500) are also expected to attract attention. Matsuyama has an impressive track record at Waialae, while Spaun’s recent U.S. Open win positions him as a favorite among DFS players.

While there are several promising contenders, it is essential to weigh each player’s current form and course history carefully. As the tournament unfolds, fans and participants alike will be watching closely to see who emerges victorious at the 2026 Sony Open, setting the stage for an exciting PGA Tour season ahead.