Three things to look out for at the US Open
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Preview, talking points and odds
The second Golf major of the year takes place this weekend with the 118th US Open.
It will be held at the Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in New York. It’s the fifth time the venue has hosted the event and the first since an infamous weekend in 2004.
The final round 14 years ago descended into farce after the seventh green was deemed ‘unplayable’. Only two players finished under par, and 28 players ended on 80 or above.
But that was then and the course has been suitably brought into line. It should be a thrilling four days across the fairways and greens with all the big names involved.
The Coral News Team run through the big talking points set to play out this weekend…
USA v Europe
Things are always cranked up a notch in a Ryder Cup year, so expect those eyeing a spot in September to find something extra in New York.
There’s still plenty of time to win or lose a place in the American or European teams, but a strong performance this weekend could prove pivotal.
Americans have dominated this event lately, winning on each of the last three occasions.
Tiger, Tiger, Tiger
Tiger Woods’ 14th and most recent Major title was the 2008 US Open. It was the American’s third success in the event, and he continues to show signs that a real return to form is on the cards.
There was the excellent final day 69 at Augusta, and a scintillating 65 at the Players Championship. Last weekend’s run to T23 at the Memorial Tournament wasn’t bad either, particularly going nine-under across Friday and Saturday.
Woods hasn’t strung it all together over the full weekend yet, but don’t rule him out at 14/1.
A surprise champion
The US Open is no stranger to throwing up surprise winners. Just think back to Brooks Koepka last year, Lucas Glover in 2009 or Michael Campbell 13 years ago.
The last 15 US Opens have crowned 15 different champions. 13 of those were claiming their first Major, while for six of them, it remains their sole success.
Dustin Johnson at 7/1 and Rory McIlroy at 10/1 head the odds, but if there’s one event where it can prove wise to look a little further down the betting, it’s this one.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing
