Las Vegas Sun

March 29, 2024

Columnist Peter Benton: Tiger will have his hands full in Open

Peter Benton's golf column appears Wednesday.

Tiger Woods is the prohibitive favorite for this week's British Open which is to be played over the demanding 6,892-yard, par-71 Royal Lytham and St. Annes course in England.

However, I think that Tiger will have some very spirited competition this year. Here is how I see it:

Nick Faldo, 8-1: I know, he has done absolutely nothing of late and may not here. But as accuracy off the tee at St. Annes is a must, he's my man.

Sergio Garcia, 10-1: Cocky little devil has two wins on our PGA Tour this year and is obviously playing very well. Could be his first major victory.

Tom Lehman, 12-1: His only major came in this event, on this layout back in 1996. Course management one of his strengths.

Tiger Woods, 14-1: Can never count this ever-so-talented man out. If his accuracy off the tee improves look for a top 10 placing.

Colin Montgomery, 15-1: Abysmal record in The Open but this could be his turn-around year. Has put some weight back on and is happily back with his wife.

Phil Mickelson, 15-1: Playing some fantastic golf but must rid himself of last-round jitters to be a contender.

Vijay Singh, 17-1: Drives well, has all the shots, and if his putting is on will be in the hunt.

Ernie Els, 17-1: Invariably right up there in all the majors, but with ongoing back problems, well, who knows?

Retief Goosen, 18-1: Our current U.S. Open champion was victorious in last week's Scottish Open. Oozing confidence so a definite threat.

John Daly, 20-1: Looks as if he has his game -- and himself -- back on track and has played very well of late.

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