The Open Championship Preview
The most historic golf tournament is upon us as the 147th Open Championship at Carnoustie is here. Due to the time difference there (as they are five hours ahead) the first round is pretty much already over. Kevin Kisner of the United States holds a one shot lead over South African Erik van Rooyen, American Tony Finau, and South African Zander Lombard.
Tiger Woods
Lets address the elephant in the room early. Yes Tiger Woods is back. Is he going to win? Heck no. He’s currently five back of the leader after 15 holes. This is his first Open Championship appearance since 2015 and the big news for him was that he changed putters. Yippee. It still isn’t helping him. He’s done, I doubt he wins another major again.
(Tiger Woods Legion @TWlegionThe Course
Built in 1842, Carnoustie Championship Course is just a marvel to look at. Playing at just 7,402 yards, Carnoustie is nothing to laugh at as it often referred to as ‘Carnasty’. Nestled in the area of Angus, Scotland it is a true links style course. It offers no trees but plenty of hazards like water and sand.
And like a traditional Open Championship would, it has massive undulating greens. Furthermore; when the wind picks up, it plays at a significantly longer distance. Just how tough is this place? Tiger Woods said “This is by far the toughest venue we’ll play.” Yes, even harder than Shinnecock Hills where Brooks Kopeka won with a score of +1.
The Betting Odds
Dustin Johnson 12-1
Justin Rose 16-1
Rory McIlroy 16-1
Jordan Spieth 20-1
Jon Rahm 20-1
Tommy Fleetwood 20-1
Justin Thomas 22-1
Brooks Koepka 22-1
Tiger Woods 22-1
Henrik Stenson 28-1
Sleepers
Marc Leishman has a beautiful shot meant for Carnoustie. He hits a slight left to right fade which favors this course as it does tend to take some turns to the right. Leishman has had a good record at Open Championships but it’s just a matter of when, not if he’ll win.
Rickie Fowler is another player to watch. He’s never won a major but Carnoustie offers challenges that Folwer likes. For one, he doesn’t really mind wind or slow greens which Carnoustie certainly has.
Finally Justin Rose. He plays well internationally (he finished T-9 is last weeks Scottish Open). Rose is always a good pick no matter where you pick him but this open course should favor his game.
My Pick to win The Open Championship
Jon Rahm has the game to win this tournament. He’s currently three back with a score of -2 but he’s one of the best players that can keep the ball low. If he can continue to keep the ball low, below the win, I think he’ll be near the top of the leaderboard all weekend. He just had to avoid the big number.
–Brian Berard (@RockyBerard)