I'll be honest with you. When I first heard William Hill was running another McIlroy money-back promo after The Masters, I nearly spat my coffee across my laptop. These bookies must be gluttons for punishment! Last time they tried this little stunt, it cost them a seven-figure payout. SEVEN FIGURES. That's not pocket change, folks.
So here's teh deal - William Hill is feeling brave (or foolish) again. Back any player NOT named Rory McIlroy to win the US PGA Championship at Quail Hollow, and if the Northern Irishman lifts the trophy instead, you'll get your stake back as a free bet up to £50.
Are these bookies actually insane?
Listen. I've been covering golf betting for years, and this offer genuinely made me do a double-take. After The Masters fiasco where William Hill had to shell out millions to punters when McIlroy won, you'd think they'd have learned their lesson.
Apparently not.
McIlroy is priced as the 4/1 favorite heading into Quail Hollow - a course where he's historically dominated. Scottie Scheffler's breathing down his neck at 9/2, with big-hitting Bryson DeChambeau sitting at 8/1 for what would be his third major title.
That time I lost £200 on Justin Thomas...
Back in 2021, I put £200 on Justin Thomas at Kiawah Island (don't tell my wife). He missed the cut by a mile and I spent the weekend sulking. This time around, Thomas is 16/1, with Xander Schauffele (18/1) and Ludvig Aberg (20/1) also in the mix for the Wanamaker Trophy.
God. I wish this promo had existed back then.
What William Hill's spokesperson actually said
Lee Phelps from William Hill seems oddly confident: "They say lightning never strikes twice, so we're pushing the boat out again with another Money Back offer if Rory McIlroy wins this week at the USPGA Championship, after paying out a seven-figure sum to punters following his Masters triumph."
I met Lee at an industry event in 2022 and he struck me as a sharp guy. But this? This feels like tempting fate. (Though I'm not complaining - it's great for us punters!)
He continued: "We're offering Money Back as a Free Bet promotion online and in-shop should Rory go back-to-back and secure his second major championship of the year at Quail Hollow. We're a few days away from what's set to be a very tightly contested tournament, but punters can watch stress-free knowing they'll get their money back as a free bet should McIlroy emerge victorious again."
Wayne "Radar" Riley is practically giddy
I've always enjoyed Radar's commentary - the man knows his stuff adn isn't afraid to speak his mind. When asked about this offer, he was practically bouncing off the walls:
"I said it was madness! William Hill paying out on all losing bets as a free bet if Rory McIlroy won The Masters. He won The Masters. Guess what? they're doing it again – for the USPGA Championship! Tell your friends, they're going to give your money back if Rory wins again!"
I bumped into Wayne at the Open last year. Poor bloke was drenched after getting caught in a typical Scottish downpour without an umbrella. Still had time for a quick chat about Rory's chances though.
The boring (but important) small print
Offer runs from 08:00 on May 12th until 18:00 on May 15th. It's for your first cash single only on the Tournament winner market (excluding McIlroy bets or Price Boosts). Free bet will equal your qualifying stake. Online players can get max 1 free bet up to £50 (expires May 25th). Full T&Cs apply. 18+ GambleAware.Org.
Gamble responsibly... seriously
I've seen what gambling problems can do to people. My cousin blew through £15K in three months back in 2019. Took him years to recover financially and emotionally. So please:
A responsible gambler is someone who:
- Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
- Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
- Never chases their losses
- Doesn't gamble if they're upset, angry or depressed
- Gamcare – gamcare.org.uk
- GambleAware – GambleAware.org
For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.
I'm putting £40 on Scheffler myself... but kind of hoping Rory wins. Best of both worlds!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the basics rules for golf?
The R&A and United States Golf Association have standardized a set of comprehensive rules for the game of golf. The essence of the game is to get the ball from the teeing grounds into the hole, using one stroke or several strokes. Some of the key principles include: playing the ball exactly as it lies on the ground, playing the course in the same condition as found, and completing the holes with as few strokes as possible. For example, if you hit the wrong ball or play from the wrong spot, or lose a ball, there are penalties. Golf etiquette, while not strictly part of the rules, is integral to the game, addressing considerations such as safety, consideration for others on the course, and taking care of the course.
What are the rules of golf on the course?
Golf etiquette should be respected as much as the rules. Recognizing the pace of game play means being ready for your shot at your turn, and walking quickly in between shots. Always show consideration for other players by remaining silent and still when someone is preparing to swing. Safety is important - don't play your shot until you can no longer see the group ahead. Take care of the course by repairing divots, raking bunkers, and fixing ball marks on the greens. Additionally, it's polite to wear appropriate clothing according to the dresscode of the golf course you are on.
Is there a difference between men's and women's golf equipment?
Men's and Women's Golf Equipment are different. This is mainly because of differences in physicality and swing speed. Women's club shafts are usually more flexible and lighter to accommodate the softer swings of women compared to men. Women's clubs are usually designed to have a greater launch angle. This helps them to hit the ball higher. Additionally, grips are usually smaller to suit smaller hands, and the aesthetic design may differ. However, equipment should not be solely based on gender, but rather individual abilities, physical characteristics, and personal preferences.
What kind of golf clubs are needed by beginners?
For beginners, a basic set of golf clubs is more than adequate. Standard sets usually include a driver, two woods (such as a 3-wood or 5-wood), an iron set ranging from 4-9, a pitching wedge and a putter. Many players also benefit from using a bunker shot sand wedge. While professionals carry up to 14 clubs, which is the maximum allowed under the rules of golf, beginners should focus on mastering a limited selection of clubs before expanding their set. If you are just beginning, focus on clubs that feel comfortable and easy to swing.
It is necessary to have a golf teacher who has a degree?
Even though it's optional to take lessons from professionals, they can help you improve your golf game. This is particularly true for intermediate and beginner players. A qualified instructor can provide personal guidance, correct fundamental flaws in your swing, help you understand the intricacies of the game's mental aspect, and offer tailored advice for your unique playing style. Sometimes, self-teaching leads to bad habits which are difficult to change. Even seasoned golfers will benefit from regular tune-ups and advice with a pro. Lessons provide a good return on investment and can improve your scores.
How often should I practice golf to improve?
The quality and consistency of your practice is more important than the quantity. Beginners will see improvement if they practice two to four times per week. You should devote time to the long shot, short game and putting. Quality practice means having a clear aim for each practice session, such as working on swing technique, shot accuracy, or distance control. Include professional instruction whenever possible to ensure you practice effectively and don't reinforce bad techniques. Remember, it's not just about hitting as many balls as possible; it's about making each shot count.
What can I do to improve my golfing swing?
Improving your golfing swing requires practice, good techniques, and sometimes, professional instruction. Beginner's stance, posture, and grip are all fundamentals. To achieve a fluid and balanced swing, it is important to maintain a balanced posture with your feet at shoulder-width distance, grip the club properly with neither a tight nor a loose hold, as well as maintain a posture which allows you to move with ease. Slow motion swings are a good way to grasp the various components, such as the path of the swing, the clubface's alignment, and your point of impact. Work with a coach to receive personalized feedback, and spend time driving or on the practice range to refine your technique. Consistency and repetition are key. Focus on a consistent swing rather than hitting hard.
Statistics
- It is estimated that over 90% of dedicated golfers maintain their equipment regularly, which aids in performance consistency.
- About 85% of golf instructors recommend that new players focus on short game skills as an effective way to reduce their scores.
- Studies show that practicing putting for at least 15 minutes before a round can improve a player's putting accuracy by as much as 25%.
- Golfers who take lessons improve their game twice as fast as those who choose to learn through trial and error.
- Golfers who use a golf-specific fitness program can increase their drive distance by an average of 15 yards, benefitting their overall game.
- Beginner golfers who invest in at least five professional lessons reduce their handicap by an average of 30% faster than those who do not seek instruction.
- Over 35% of new golfers express the desire to play more rounds after experiencing their first full 18-hole game.
External Links
How To
How To Choose the Right Golf Clubs as a Beginner
When starting in golf, selecting the correct clubs is pivotal for developing a solid foundation. Beginners may want to get a set of clubs that includes a drive, a short iron, an iron from 5 to 9 and a sand or pitching wedge. The driver is useful for long-distance shots from the tee, and the putter on the greens. As you get closer to the green, irons will cover a variety of distances. For more forgiveness, choose clubs with a wider sweet spot. It is also beneficial to get clubs with a suitable shaft flex, typically a more flexible shaft for those with a slower swing speed. To ensure a comfortable golf swing, you should also make sure that your clubs match your height and grip.
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