Predicting the U.S. Open Winner
International players have the advantage at Oakmont
Here are some favorites, contenders and darkhorses for next week's U.S. Open. Some Americans are at the top of their game, but the international contingent is stronger.
Although the PGA TOUR Money List is nearly evenly divided among American and International players, the advantage for the United States Open at Oakmont, June 14-17, must go to the Internationals. A look at the top-10 money leaders reveals a nearly even split, with a slight advantage going to the Internationals. The top-20 is not much different.
Looking at the individual players, some key Americans are not at the top of their game. Tiger Woods is off to a great start this year and, as always, is one of the favorites, if not the favorite, but his play of late has not been his best. Phil Mickelson is battling a recent injury. Though he should be back in time for the Open next week, the mental aspect of a wrist injury is tougher to overcome than the physical injury itself.
Masters champion Zach Johnson and Jim Furyk may be the best hope for the Americans. Johnson has been able to maintain his focus and display some remarkable putting and iron play. Furyk has come on strong of late and should make a good run.
Top favorites among the International field include Rory Sabbatini and Adam Scott. Sabbatini has gained some notoriety for statements about Tiger Wood's game, which drew some ire from Tiger. So far, in the last couple of weeks he has looked up to the challenge. Adam Scott has been a strong contender all year and is approaching his best game as the Open nears.
Other strong Internationals who have played well in the past few weeks and have a real shot at becoming U.S. Open Champion include last week's winner K.J. Choi, Vijay Singh, Luke Donald and defending champion Geoff Ogilvy. It seems strange to call Jose Maria Olazabal a darkhorse, but fantastic iron play gives him a real chance to contend.
The favorites:
- Tiger Woods - He's always going to be near the top. Except for last year.
- Luke Donald - Tight game. Not flashy, but sound. A quality in demand at the U.S. Open.
- Adam Scott - Great player, great game. Peaking at the right moment.
The Contenders
- Jose Maria Olazabal - Proving himself one of the best.
- Zach Johnson - He should be getting more credit.
- Vijay Singh - Can't ever count out such a workhorse.
The Darkhorses
- Jim Furyk - Not having his best year, but improving of late. Watch out if he hits stride.
- Rory Sabbatini - He's been backing up his trash talk.
- Geoff Ogilvy - Hasn't looked as good as earlier in the season, but he has fantastic game.
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