The Genesis Invitational Preview

Tournament Overview Event: 2026 Genesis Invitational Dates: February 19–22, 2026 Location: Riviera Country Club, Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles, California, one of golf’s most iconic and challenging layouts Format: 72 hole stroke play with a cut after 36 holes, top 50 and ties Status: PGA TOUR Signature Event that attracts a world class, limited field with elevated FedExCup points and a significantly large purse Host: Tiger Woods, who does not regularly compete but remains involved as tournament host Course characteristics: Par 71, around 7,380 yards, tight fairways, tricky Poa annua greens, and narrow corridors that demand precise driving and a strong short game Top Betting Favorites Scottie Scheffler World Ranking: No. 1 Why he’s favored: The most consistent tee to green player in the world Leads or ranks near the top annually in Strokes Gained Approach and Tee to Green Rarely beats himself with elite course management and scrambling Riviera Fit: Riviera demands precise iron play into firm Poa annua greens, which plays directly into Scheffler’s strengths. While he has not dominated here historically, his high ball flight and elite distance control make him dangerous on long par 4s like Nos. 4, 12, and 15. What determines his week: Putting. If he has even an average week on the greens, he is the most likely winner in the field. Rory McIlroy Why he’s near the top of odds boards: One of the best drivers of the golf ball in history Excellent long iron player, which is crucial at Riviera Big event pedigree, elevated events suit him Riviera Fit: Riviera rewards high, soft long iron approaches and creative shot shaping, both strengths of McIlroy. However, he has produced mixed results here, largely due to streaky putting performances on Poa greens. What determines his week: Wedge play and putting inside 10 feet. If those cooperate, his power can separate him. Dark Horses and Value Picks Hideki Matsuyama Defending champion and proven Riviera performer Why he’s dangerous: One of the best iron players of his generation Elite around the greens, a critical asset at Riviera’s tight runoffs Historically comfortable on Poa annua Riviera Fit: Almost ideal. Riviera rewards ball striking precision and creativity, and Matsuyama thrives in demanding scoring environments. Key factor: Putting variance. If the putter heats up even slightly, he contends. Tommy Fleetwood Why he’s in the mix: Consistent global performer Strong iron play and short game Thrives on classical layouts Riviera Fit: Fleetwood’s shot shaping ability and control off the tee suit Riviera’s doglegs and elevation changes. The question mark has historically been closing ability in PGA Tour events. Key factor: Can he convert a 54 hole lead or Sunday chance? For me, this week at the Genesis Invitational always feels a little different. There is something about Riviera Country Club that demands respect and exposes every weakness. I am expecting a tough old school test where the biggest names like Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy will have to truly earn it, and where patience, precision, and a hot putter will ultimately decide who lifts the trophy.