12 Jun 2019
Now in its 147th year, the Open Championship returns to our screens this week, in what promises to be yet another pulsating British tournament.
The Open, which is the third major of the year, this year takes place at Carnoustie Golf Links Course in Angus, Scotland - a course which is described as one of the toughest golfing tests in the world, due to treacherous and unpredictable conditions.
The course is no stranger to the Championship having been used several times previously - the most recent of that being in 2007, where Sergio Garcia was pipped to the post by Padraig Harrington in a thrilling sudden death playoff.
Looking back to last year’s tournament, it was the young American Jordan Spieth who came out on top, after shooting four rounds under par.
The 24-year old will be keen to defend his crown this year, although he isn’t a favourite at 18/1 to do so, due to his recent poor run of form.
Looking ahead to this year, it could be one of the most tactical and strategic Championships to date, due to the recent dry weather conditions.
The course is set to be firm and fast running, making a long hitter a likely winner if they are brave enough to try and fly over some of the course’s unforgiving bunkers and traps.
The highland winds have caused many a problem for players in the past, however this year it looks as if it won’t be too much of a factor. We could see a rather low scoring round compared to other years.
The Open is the oldest and most historic major in the world and for that reason, thousands of fans from across the globe will be travelling to watch the action over the coming week.
Below we have listed some of the key players that fans will be looking out for and who we also believe to be key contenders to lift the Claret Jug this year.
Dustin Johnson
Simply put, you can never rule out the world no.1. Although Dustin has never won the Open before, he has been in contention on several occasions - including 2011, 2013, 2014 and 2015 - showing he is always there or there about.
Whilst he hasn?t played since the US Open, the American is never short of form and if he plays well, this year could well be his, making him a good bet at 12/1.
Justin Rose
Recently the world number 3 has started to become the full package, with his short game beginning to match his long. The 37-year-old is bang in form of late, winning the Fort Worth event in style back in May as well as coming 10th in the US Open.
If Justin can carry his recent good form into this week, there is no doubt he has the quality to take home the jug. We have him at 25/1 to lead after the first round.
Patrick Reed
The 27-year old from Texas has proven that he knows how to handle the pressure when it comes to playing the final few holes of a major tournament.
Not only did he cause an upset and win the Masters back in April, but he also managed to come 4th at the US Open - showing he wasn?t just a one hit wonder. We have him at 33/1 to go all the way at this year?s tournament.
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