It would be all too easy to pick Dustin Johnston, Rory McIlroy and Jordan Spieth as likely winners, but we are going to pick five outsiders who we think have what it takes to lift the famous Claret Jug at Carnoustie on Sunday evening...
MARC LEISHMAN
The Australian has been knocking on the door of a Major win for some time now and has the game to succeed on the famous course — three top-six finishes in his past four Opens proves that. He is not in the best of form, but do not be surprised to see his name near the top of the leaderboard.
CHRIS WOOD
Began his Open career with two top-fives in his first two starts. That was 10 years ago but the tall 30-year- old knows how to play links golf and a recent second-paced finish at the French Open suggests he is in good form. Finished tied for 14th at Royal Birkdale last year and knows Carnoustie well.
TIGER WOODS
It may seem strange to see the best golfer ever bracketed with the “outsiders” but that is exactly what he is. Without an Open win since 2006, and a Major since 2008, Woods is on the comeback trail, but still outside the world’s top 50. He will know how to plot his way around the course and is definitely one to watch.
BRANDEN GRACE
Has five top-six finishes in Majors in the past three and half years and two top-five finishes in his past four tournaments. Those stats suggest he could contend at Carnoustie. Add to that the fact his low ball flight is perfect for links golf and it is clear that the South African is a contender.
TYRELL HATTON
The Englishman has twice won the Dunhill Links, where Carnoustie is one of the three courses used, so will know how to get around the fabled course. He was not in the best of form recently — four missed cuts in five starts — but since then has recorded three top 20s and will fancy his chances. Scotland.
