Golf: Preview of the British Open
The Open Championship once again returns to hallowed St. Andrews for the 150th playing of storied championship. This year’s British Open features a number of interesting story lines going into the event.
Perhaps the biggest story of the championship is what will Tiger Woods, one of the all time PGA betting favorites, do? Having been undefeated at St. Andrews, being the 2000 and 2005 champion, American golfer Tiger Woods would seemingly be the favorite heading into the event. That was, however, before his tabloid scandals began in late 2009. Absent from the sport for over six months, Woods returned to competitive play at the Masters in April where he finished 4th. After an auspicious start to the year, Woods’ season quickly turned sour with him missing a cut at Quail Hollow and never being in serious contention at other smaller tournaments. At the U.S. Open, the second major of the year, Woods again finished in 4th place. The state of Woods’ game is questionable at best since he has recently split with his long time swing coach Hank Haney. In recent weeks, Woods has been improved his driving accuracy, but his short game has been a serious cause for concern. However, given his record at St. Andrews and knowing that the venue is his favorite course in the world, it is impossible to count Woods out.
Another interesting story line involves world number 2, Phil Mickelson. Mickelson won the Masters in April and has been in fine form for the last year. He has had chances to overtake Wood’s spot as the top ranked golfer in the world for the past few months, but has failed to seal the deal. A maiden victory at the Open Championship should be enough to vault Mickelson to the top spot.
Also not to be discounted are Ernie Els and Justin Rose, who both have had superb years. And let’s not forget two time champion Padraig Harrington who peaks during this time of the golf season.
The 150th playing of the Open Championship is full of intrigue and mystery. In no other year in recent history has the Open seemed as wide open as in 2010.
