CALEDON, Ont. – The RBC Canadian Open wrapped up practice rounds at TPC Toronto Osprey Valley, Wednesday afternoon, as they get set for day one of the tournament Thursday.
Rory McIlroy headlines a field stacked with eight of the top 25 golfers in the world, including Canadians Corey Conners and Taylor Pendrith who all spoke at Wednesday’s post-Pro-AMs press conference.
McIlroy has played consistently in the Canadian Opens for the past six years including wins in 2019 and 2022. The 2025 Master Champion is known for playing the week before Majors like the U.S Open, contrary to many other players on the PGA.
RBC’s Canadian Open allows him to do that.
“Before playing in this event, 2016, 2017, 2018, I missed three cuts in a row at the U.S Open,” said McIlroy. “Since playing in the Canadian Open the week before, I’ve had six top 10s in a row [at the U.S Open].”
His success in Canada has drawn many eyes to the tournament over the years, including those who wager — McIlroy has been named the favourite across all oddsmakers at +450.
Fellow European Ludvig Aberg (+1400) has the second-greatest odds while Canadians Conners (+2000) and Pendrith (+2800) are favoured within the top five to win the tournament.
Pendrith has golfed at TPC Toronto on numerous occasions, including two Canadian development events.
“I had a chance to win on the Mackenzie Tour here, so I feel comfortable here,” said Pendrith. “Also played numerous rounds here with my friends from home in carts and music, so I feel comfortable on the grounds.”
But it was his first time playing at TPC Toronto this week since the renovations in 2023.
“Just trying to learn kind of the new holes, try to find my lines,” said the Canadian. “It feels like a similar golf course to what I’ve known for the last 10 years, so I feel good here and looking forward to the week.”
Fellow Canadian Corey Conners, although not as familiar with the course, feels good heading into round one on Thursday.
“My game’s been consistent this season,” said Conners in Wednesday afternoon’s press conference.
“I’ve had a number of good weeks. Kind of got off to a better start this year and built some confidence early in the season.”
Conners has yet to get a win this season but has five top-10 finishes.
