Ryder Cup top European predictions & free golf betting tips

Steve Palmer's best golf bets & analysis for the top European points scorer market at the 2021 Ryder Cup.

Where to watch

Sky Sports Main Event and Golf, 1pm Friday

Best bet

Viktor Hovland top European
2pts 7-1 general

Preview

The Ryder Cup rookies this year are some of the best in history - America have the world number three and the FedEx Cup champion as two of theirs - and Europe have two top-class newcomers as well. Viktor Hovland could be set to debut in style.

Hovland has played without fear for the majority of his career and the Norwegian youngster may follow in the footsteps of Thomas Pieters, a cocksure debutant who scored four points on a European side which was thrashed 17-11 in Minnesota five years ago.

Hovland seems a solid bet for top European honours given the likelihood that he gets strong partners for the first two days. Jon Rahm and Rory McIlroy seem potential sidekicks. Hovland's driving ability - he is typically long and straight - make him a trump card for Padraig Harrington this week and the world number 14 could be used for five sessions if he settles quickly into the competition.

The lack of firepower at Harrington's disposal on an open track means Hovland is almost certain to feature in both fourballs sessions, so at least three bites of the cherry seems probable. Rahm and McIlroy look the main dangers.

Sign up to Sky Bet and get £30 in free bets when you place a £5 bet

First single & EW bet only. Odds of 1/1 or greater. 3 x £10 bet tokens. Free bet stakes not included in returns. Free bets are non withdrawable. No free bet expiry. Eligibility restrictions. Further T&Cs apply. 18+ begambleaware.org

CLAIM OFFER HERE

MORE FREE BETS

Today's top sports betting stories

Follow us on Twitter @racingpostsport