This week's Open at Royal Troon appears to be a classic 'open' affair. Before diving into predictions, let's examine the critical elements: Who's in top form? Who excelled in 2024? Who specializes in links golf? What does the course require? Who's physically fit and who's exhausted? Predicting success in a 156-player field is always challenging. Favorites include Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, Bryson DeChambeau, last week's Genesis Scottish Open winner Robert MacIntyre, and Xander Schauffele. However, our focus is on Dubai resident Tommy Fleetwood.
At 33, Fleetwood tied for 3rd at The Masters and placed 16th at the US Open this year, consistently near the top in Majors. Accuracy off the tee, a strength of his, will be crucial, especially with the unusually thick rough due to recent Scottish rains. Ranked 25th in the PGA Tour's FedEx Cup, 12th in the Official World Golf Ranking, and 6th in the DP World Tour's Race to Dubai, Fleetwood also stands ninth in Total Driving and Scrambling on the PGA Tour stats.
Fleetwood's comprehensive game, particularly off the tee and around the greens, will be vital. He finished 34th at the Genesis Scottish Open with rounds of 65, 69, 66, and 71, totaling 20 birdies, indicating strong play. He noted, "I am scoring much worse than I am playing. I am playing great – but I need to sort that out. I need to keep working and not affect everything else." Fresh and poised, Fleetwood won the Dubai Invitational earlier this year, boosting his confidence.
Raised in northwest England, links golf comes naturally to him. However, the draw's luck, a significant factor in The Open's one-tee start, can make or break a player's week. Fleetwood has three top 10 finishes in his last four Opens. A Major win could be the final piece in his golfing resume. Considering all factors, Fleetwood stands a strong chance at Royal Troon. We wish him the best!
