The countdown is over. The Golden Tee World Championship tees off this week at the iconic Palms Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. For the second straight year, the Palms transforms the former Greene St. Kitchen space into an atmosphere of competitive arcade golf, welcoming the best of the best to battle for a $30,000 top prize and the ultimate bragging rights.

But before the main event begins, four final players will punch their ticket to the big show in the "Closest to the Pit" contest on Thursday night. This adds a twist of suspense and strategy to an already thrilling weekend.

This year’s field is stacked. Most of the top contenders have already secured their spots and are ready to chase greatness. Among the headliners are Paul Luna, Andy Haas, Evan Gossett, Paul Tayloe, and reigning champion Mark Gomez. Yet, as we've seen time and time again, anything can happen on the championship stage.

Some players are seeking redemption. Others are looking to make history. Let’s break down the favorites and a few dark horse picks who could shake up the bracket.

Download the William Hill Sportsbook app to see all of the odds here. The Golden Tee World Championship odds are in the Special section in the All Sports option.

Paul Luna (+400)
2024 Player of the Year | 2022 World Champion
Luna is locked in. The Texas powerhouse has been a dominant force for years, with deep runs in nearly every World Championship since 2017. With a fresh Player of the Year title under his belt and a bold guarantee to win it all, the pressure is on but so is his confidence.

Andy Haas (+550)
2008 & 2016 World Champion | 20 National Golden Tee Tour Wins
Considered by many as the GOAT of Golden Tee, Haas has the résumé to prove it. Two World titles, 20 National wins, and three Player of the Year wins. While Worlds have eluded him in recent years, his 2025 performances have been top-tier. Could this be the year he reclaims the crown and becomes the first player with 3 World Champioships?

Evan Gossett (+650)
2018 World Champion | 2025 Missouri Open Runner-Up
Gossett remains a consistent force in the Golden Tee scene. He’s racked up multiple top-5 finishes across recent years in the National Golden Tee Tour and is always in the conversation. His 2018 World title was no fluke and he’s ready to return to the top.

Joe Massara (+800)
2x World Championship Runner-Up | 2025 Florida Open Champion
Massara has been so close to World Championship glory. With recent wins and podium finishes, including Florida and Missouri Opens, JoJo’s game is razor sharp. One of the most feared Daily Contest players, he's looking to shot to the top on the biggest stage.

Paul Tayloe (+1000)
2023 World Champion | 2024 Worlds Runner-Up
Tayloe is one of the most electric and entertaining players in the game. With his flashy outfits and fearless style, he brings personality and precision. His Worlds record is rock solid, and he's out to prove 2023 wasn't a one-time win.

Mark Gomez (+1200)
2024 World Champion | 2023 World Champion Silver Bracket
Gomez’s Cinderella story is still being written. After a shocking run from 31st in qualifying to the championship in 2024, he’s now defending his title. From Silver Bracket winner to World Champion in one year. Will lightning strike twice?

Eddie Godfrey (+1200)
2023 Worlds Runner-Up
Eddie G is one of the most creative players on tour. He sees the game differently and taking routes others wouldn’t even consider. Though he hasn’t won a National tournament yet, his volume of play and high IQ make him a threat at any tournament.

Bryce Aubart (+2800)
2025 Florida Open Runner-Up | 2022 Wisconsin Open Purple Bracket Winner
Bryce is the youngest player in this year’s championship, and he’s already made a name for himself. With wins and podium finishes across both Silver and Gold brackets, Aubart is looking to show that the next generation of Golden Tee is ready to shine.

Dark Horse Picks to Watch

Sean Gervais (+1000)
Always a threat when his game is on, Gervais is a veteran with a lot of upside and bracket-busting potential.

Jeff Lannen (+1500)
A longtime staple in the Golden Tee world, Lannen can go on a run at any time with his consistent, high-level play.

Christopher Wengler (+1800)
Strong recent performances and fearless approaches make Wengler a dangerous draw.

Andy Fox (+2000)
A precise player, Fox can catch fire in match play and make some serious noise.

Steve Beattie (+3300)
One of the smartest players in the game. Beattie has the experience and game knowledge to beat anyone.

Chris Brewer (+3300)
When he's locked in, Brewer can eliminate top seeds and march through the bracket with momentum.

Brandon Robinson (+3500)
A consistent grinder who’s been trending upward so don’t be surprised if he plays the spoiler.

Al Zerull (+4000)
An OG in the Golden Tee scene, Zerull’s experience and high ceiling make him a dangerous sleeper.

Clint Grover (+4500)
Steady and reliable, Grover has the tools to turn heads if he gets hot at the right time.

George Von K (+5000)
A fan-favorite with big-game potential. George has pulled off major upsets before.

Marc Muklewicz (+6000)
A longtime competitor with deep bracket experience, Muklewicz knows how to navigate every course.

Burak Temel (+7500)
One of the more unpredictable yet exciting players in the mix. If he catches fire, Temel could go on a run.