The Open Championship – Ginger Joe’s Top 100 Player-By-Player Guide

1. Rory McIlroy – 10 Stars – ★★★★★★★★★★

Rory McIlroy has a huge chance of winning this year’s Open Championship, and I actually think Royal Birkdale is an excellent fit for his game. His combination of power, controlled ball striking and high-quality iron play should be a major asset around this layout, especially if he arrives with confidence.

While his previous Open at Birkdale in 2017 was disappointing as he missed the cut, I don’t read too much into that. He’s a completely different player now and more importantly, he’s back in the major winning circle after ending his long wait by winning the 2025 Masters, and then the 2026 Masters, too. When Rory is driving the ball well, there are very few players who can live with him from tee to green. He can shape it both ways, flight it down when required and attack flags with confidence.

The key, as always, is whether he turns up with his best golf, because if he does, I genuinely believe this course sets up beautifully for him. For me, Rory has one of the strongest chances in the field.

He has the experience, the confidence is high, and he has the complete game to add another Claret Jug. Everything seems set for a big week, and I think he offers better value in the betting in comparison to Scottie Scheffler. McIlroy is the one to beat on this particular week.

2. Wyndham Clark – 10 Stars – ★★★★★★★★★★

Wyndham Clark has bounced back in a huge way this season, rediscovering the form that made him a major champion. After winning the CJ Cup Byron Nelson this year, he followed it up with a second US Open title, proving once again that he has the game and mentality to perform when the pressure is at its highest.

His ball striking has been exceptional, and when he is confident, he is one of the most dangerous players in the field. His big left-to-right shot shape is not always considered the ideal profile, but the fact he has already won two US Opens with that style is a major positive. Perhaps makes him the exception, considering he has proven he can make it work multiple times.

Clark is one of the strongest players mentally in the game. He thrives under pressure, believes in his ability, and has shown he can deliver on the biggest stages. With his current form, it would be no surprise to see him add another major championship to his resume. A big week looks very possible, and I am all for it.

3. Scottie Scheffler – 9 Stars – ★★★★★★★★★

Scottie Scheffler remains the benchmark in world golf, even if he’s not quite at his absolute peak right now. That said, his B game is still good enough to contend most weeks, which tells you everything about the level he operates at. He has already won The Open Championship, proving he can win on links courses, even if I don’t believe this style of golf naturally brings out the very best in him.

His greatest strength is his relentless tee-to-green consistency, and since switching to the mallet putter, he has also looked far more reliable on the greens for the most part, too. Of all the Open venues, I actually think Royal Birkdale is one of the better fits for Scheffler. It rewards elite ball striking, patience and intelligent course management, all areas where he excels. He doesn’t need to produce his absolute best golf to find himself on the first page of the leaderboard, and that’s what makes him such a dangerous player.

The only negative, is that he has just missed his first cut from 78 starts at the Scottish Open, so backing him this week does seem like more of a risk than ever. Despite the drift in the Open Championship betting market, in a field of more than 150 players, I find it very difficult to take such short odds, even on the world’s best golfer. But if you back him, be my guest, because he is incredible when it all clicks.

4. Matt Fitzpatrick – 9 Stars – ★★★★★★★★★

Matt Fitzpatrick has been one of the stories of the season and is back up to world number four after rediscovering his best form. A US Open champion, Matty Fitzpatrick has proven he can handle the biggest occasions, and his wins this year show just how much confidence and quality he has found again this season. We are now seeing a complete golfer.

Royal Birkdale should suit him, too. His ability to control the golf ball, keep it in play and plot his way around difficult courses is exactly what you want around an Open venue. The one concern, is he does hit the ball a touch too low for my liking, but it shouldn’t be too much of an issue. I particularly love his short game for this test, as saving pars and handling awkward links conditions will be hugely important.

Nobody would begrudge Matty Fitz winning a home Open after the season he has had. He is all class, has found the perfect balance between aggression and control, and there is no doubt he can seriously contend here. It could be a huge week for Matt Fitzpatrick.

5. Tommy Fleetwood – 8 Stars – ★★★★★★★★

There aren’t many players in world golf who look better suited to Royal Birkdale than Tommy Fleetwood. Raised just down the road in Southport, this is a course he knows inside out, and he proved that by closing with a sensational 63 when The Open was last played here in 2017. His tee-to-green game is now unquestionably one of the strongest on tour, he’s a superb driver of the golf ball and his iron play is perfectly suited to the demands of links golf.

You can’t help but feel Fleetwood has an Open Championship in him, and returning to his home links could be the moment everything finally falls into place. He hits it both ways when required, he strikes the ball consistently well, and he is a real box ticker for the Open. Rock solid.

6. Xander Schauffele – 8 Stars – ★★★★★★★★

Xander Schauffele is one of the most complete golfers in the world, and his game looks extremely well suited to Royal Birkdale. He has now proven himself on the biggest stage, winning both the PGA Championship and The Open Championship in 2024, which shows he has the temperament and ability to handle major championship pressure. His tee-to-green game is the standout factor.

Schauffele is incredibly consistent with his ball striking and has the perfect skill set for links golf. He can hit a soft draw or a soft fade depending on what the hole requires, and I love the fact he can adapt rather than relying on one specific shot shape. That versatility is a huge advantage around an Open venue. His short game is another major positive. He is extremely reliable from difficult situations, rarely gets flustered and has the patience needed to grind out scores when conditions become tough.

For me, Schauffele is one of the strongest profiles in the field. He has the major pedigree, the links experience and the all-around game required to contend once again. A very solid option at Royal Birkdale, and another box ticker here.

7. Viktor Hovland – 8 Stars – ★★★★★★★★

Hovland looks to have his game back, and his recent win at the Travelers Championship is a huge sign that he is moving in the right direction. Beating Scottie Scheffler in a playoff showed that the confidence and quality are returning, but there is still more in the locker, we’ve seen it before.

At his peak, Hovland is an excellent course fit here. His elite ball striking, approach play, and ability to dominate from tee to green when he is comfortable with his swing make this a setup where he has genuine winning upside. The encouraging thing is that his game is coming back in patches, and that’s hugely inspiring. Despite already getting a win, Hovland still hasn’t fully hit top gear.

If the ball striking clicks this week, he has a massive chance to contend deeply. The talent is undeniable, the confidence is returning, and this is exactly the type of course where a fully firing Hovland can do serious damage. At the very least, he looks like a strong top 10 candidate at least this year. Big chance.

8. Sam Burns – 8 Stars – ★★★★★★★★

Sam Burns came very close in this year’s US Open, and he is a player who is starting to look increasingly comfortable on the biggest stage. His best finish in The Open is only a T-31, but the way he has performed in majors this season suggests he could leave that record well behind.

He finished tied 7th at the Masters, tied 26th in the PGA Championship, and then followed that up with a runner-up finish at the US Open, and that looks like a seriously impressive major resume this season so far.

Add in four top 10 finishes this season, and it feels like Burns could be peaking at exactly the right time. A five-time PGA Tour winner with an elite short game, he has all the tools needed to contend in links conditions. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him go very close here, a major winner in waiting, for sure!

9. Jon Rahm – 7 Stars – ★★★★★★★

Jon Rahm is one of the very best players in world golf and has two major championships to his name, winning the US Open in 2021 and the Masters in 2023. His Open Championship record is also hugely impressive, finishing third in 2021, second in 2023 and tied seventh in 2024, showing his ability to compete on links courses.

That said, I don’t think Royal Birkdale is the perfect course fit for him. Rahm’s natural shot shape is heavily left to right, and personally, I prefer players here who don’t shape it as drastically one way as he does. However, his class is what separates him. His tee-to-green game is simply elite, his iron play is world-class, and he has the power and mentality to overcome the course fit concerns, that I’ve mentioned.

He is absolutely capable of winning this, but from a betting perspective, I think there are others better suited to Birkdale, based on the odds. All class, but he can be volatile for sure. He’s a risk at the prices.

10. Justin Rose – 7 Stars – ★★★★★★★

Justin Rose is a player that looks to have a right chance in either The Open or the next Masters. His experience, temperament and all-around game are perfectly suited to major championship golf.

That said, I’ve been frustrated by his switch to the McLaren irons during the heart of the major season. Rose isn’t a bomber, so he has always built his game around elite iron play, and with his old Taylor Made set, he was absolutely dynamite. The transition hasn’t looked as smooth as I’d hoped, and I don’t think it’s helped his performances in the biggest events.

He’s got every chance if things click, but personally I’d be much happier backing him if he still had the old irons in the bag. That takes him from a nine-star, down to a seven for me.

11. Tyrell Hatton – 7 Stars – ★★★★★★★

Tyrrell Hatton is one of those players who has every part of the game needed to compete at the highest level, and when everything clicks, he is one of the best players in the world. His biggest challenges are his temperament and the tendency to start tournaments slowly, which can leave him with too much ground to make up.

However, he is a proven big-event performer and has shown he can win on almost any type of course. Wins at venues such as St. Andrews, Carnoustie, Kingsbarns, Valderrama, Wentworth, and Bay Hill highlight how complete his game is. He plays a controlled soft fade and, when his ball striking is sharp, he is deadly accurate.

The key this week is getting off to a fast start and keeping his emotions under control. He is a strong top 20 bet, but if he finds his rhythm early, he has every attribute required to win here. It just depends on what version of Tyrrell we get. The Claret Jug has a space for his name, it’s just a case of what year.

12. Robert MacIntyre – 7 Stars – ★★★★★★★

Bobby MacIntyre is a player who I think could genuinely win The Open at some point in his career. If you look at the major venues, this is the one that clearly suits him best. The Masters and many of the typical PGA Championship setups don’t always play into his strengths, but links golf brings his creativity, imagination, and quality ball striking into play.

He played well enough in the Scottish Open last week and arrives here with a chance, but the biggest challenge may be the mental aspect of things. The Open demands patience, and MacIntyre will need to accept that things won’t always go his way and avoid forcing the issue when conditions get difficult. There is no doubt he has the game to win an Open Championship.

The talent is there, the course fit is there, and I certainly wouldn’t be writing him off this week. It just depends on what mood he is in. He has a good chance.

13. Shane Lowry – 7 Stars – ★★★★★★★

Shane Lowry is another player who feels tailor-made for The Open. If there is one major championship that suits his game best, this is always going to be the one. His creativity, experience, and ability to handle difficult conditions make him a serious threat when links golf gets demanding.

Of course, he has already proven he can win this championship, lifting the Claret Jug at Royal Portrush in 2019 with a brilliant display of links golf, and a final round of 63. That victory showed exactly what Lowry is capable of when everything clicks, and he certainly has the game to add another Open title to his resume.

The question with Lowry is always timing. We know the ability is there, but it depends on which version of him turns up. When he’s confident and playing well, he is more than capable of competing with the very best. However, consistency has been the challenge at times, certainly this season, and a recent change of caddy adds another variable. He has missed the cut at Royal Birkdale before, so this venue hasn’t been kind to him historically, but I wouldn’t be using that as a reason to dismiss him.

This is the type of championship where Lowry can thrive, and if he arrives in the right frame of mind, he is absolutely one to respect here.

14. Aaron Rai – 7 Stars – ★★★★★★★

Aaron Rai looks a very fair price for The Open this year, and I think the market is still underestimating him. His breakthrough major victory in this year’s the PGA Championship at Aronimink should give him plenty of confidence, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he followed it up with another strong showing here.

His driving has improved noticeably, his iron play has always been his major strength, and when the putter warms up, he holes plenty. He’ll need every part of his game to click, but that’s true for most players in a championship of this caliber.

With a major now on his CV and a game well suited to links golf, he looks to have a much better chance than his odds suggest this week. Dangerous to underestimate.

15. Patrick Reed – 7 Stars – ★★★★★★★

Patrick Reed is a player I think deserves plenty of respect heading into The Open. He has been in excellent form this year, winning twice on the DP World Tour, including the Hero Dubai Desert Classic and the Qatar Masters, showing that his game is in an excellent place.

We know what Reed is capable of on the biggest stages with a Masters title already on his resume, and his short game, creativity and mentality are all major championship assets. He looks confident, competitive, and ready for another big week.

He might not be everyone’s favorite, but you certainly wouldn’t want to underestimate him in regard to his golf game, because he is all class.

16. Min Woo Lee – 7 Stars – ★★★★★★★

Runner-up in last week’s Scottish Open and his ball striking is so impressive to watch. He moves the ball both ways particularly well, and Royal Birkdale is a nice fit for Min Woo. There are a lot of previous Open venues which don’t tally up to his game I don’t think, but Royal Birkdale is the exception because it is scoreable.

If you want a player who looks primed to hit peak form this week, it’s Min Woo Lee, and that brings him into the mix if it were to happen. A very impressive player to watch.

17. Marco Penge – 7 Stars – ★★★★★★★

Marco Penge is one of the most exciting players in the field. After returning from surgery at last week’s BMW International Open, all eyes will be on whether he can quickly rediscover the form that earned him a PGA Tour card earlier this season.

Penge has all the attributes to become a star. He is one of the longest hitters in the game, yet still manages to drive the ball with impressive accuracy. Add in a short game that has stood up brilliantly under pressure, and it is easy to see why so many people rate him so highly. If the time away hasn’t taken too much sharpness out of his game, Royal Birkdale could be an ideal stage for him.

He has the talent to produce something special here, and while he is still proving himself at the highest level, he has the ability to surprise a lot of people. He is one of the players I’m most excited to watch this week. A serious golfer, with serious talent!

18. Kristoffer Reitan – 7 Stars – ★★★★★★★

Kristoffer Reitan has been one of the breakthrough players of the season and is a very live contender here. He has already enjoyed his best season to date, picking up wins at the Soudal Open, Nedbank Golf Challenge, and the Truist Championship at Quail Hollow on the PGA Tour, where he finished at -15. That’s a quick turnaround from the DP World Tour to getting a PGA Tour win.

It doesn’t often happen that quick, and that’s a slight insight to his game. His mid-to-high ball flight should be well suited to Royal Birkdale, while his short game has been one of the biggest reasons behind his success. He has shown the ability to score well even when his game is not perfect, which is a valuable trait in links conditions.

He may not attract the same attention as some of the bigger names, but his game is built for consistency. His repeatable swing makes him the type of player who regularly gets the most out of his ability and can often outperform expectations. Reitan is well worth considering this week at a big price.

19. Ryan Fox – 7 Stars – ★★★★★★★

Ryan Fox is a perfect fit for this type of test, and well worth a second look at huge prices. His experience, power, and ability to handle difficult conditions make him one of the players who should never be overlooked on a links course.

He has proven that repeatedly, winning the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship across a variety of links layouts and showing he has the game to adapt to different conditions. He has also won the RBC Canadian, the BMW at Wentworth, amongst others titles, and also has a runner-up finish at The Open.

Fox is a player built for the big occasions. He is comfortable in the wind, strikes the ball seriously well, and has the patience required to succeed on links courses. He may not always get the attention of the bigger names, but he is absolutely not a player to take lightly and has the ability to put together a very strong week. He is sneaky long off the tee too, and he is a good value bet for multiple markets this week.

20. Harris English – 7 Stars – ★★★★★★★

Harris English is a really intriguing contender this week. He can be a little volatile, but when his game is firing, he is more than capable of competing at the highest level. He also fits the profile of American players who tend to perform well on links courses, with the patience, ball striking, and all-around game needed to handle the conditions.

It would not be a surprise to see him find his best form again this week, and he could even be an interesting first-round leader contender if he starts quickly, too. With runner-up finishes at both the PGA Championship and The Open last year, English has already proven he can compete on the biggest stages.

At his best, he offers excellent value and has the ability to make a serious run. Harris English for the ‘English’ Open? It’s a possibility!

21. Haotong Li – 7 Stars – ★★★★★★★

Haotong Li is one of the more intriguing players in this field and a genuine contender in my eyes. He has already proven he can handle links golf finishing third at The Open Championship in 2017 at Royal Birkdale, so this venue should hold no fears.

His iron play on links courses is something that always stands out, he has a brilliant ability to control his approaches and create chances when conditions get tough. He is an exceptional ball striker when his game is in rhythm, with the creativity and shot making ability that suits this test perfectly.

The driver is the key, because if he finds fairways, he will give himself plenty of birdie opportunities. His form has been inconsistent, but he will step up in links conditions. Hugely underrated for this event.

22. Ludvig Åberg – 6 Stars – ★★★★★★

Ludvig Åberg is one of the most exciting young players in world golf, and his rise over the last couple of seasons has been remarkable. His biggest strength is undoubtedly his tee-to-green game. He hits a beautiful soft fade, which is an ideal shape for Royal Birkdale, and his ability to control his ball flight and strike his irons consistently makes him a natural fit for demanding championship layouts.

The concern for me comes around the greens. Royal Birkdale is likely to put a huge emphasis on scrambling, touch and creativity, and I’m not convinced that part of Åberg’s game is quite at the level required to win an Open Championship yet. His ball striking will give him plenty of chances, but if he misses greens in difficult spots, I’m not sure if he has the short-game security to keep momentum over four rounds.

There is absolutely no doubt he will contend in majors for many years, and his ceiling is enormous. However, for this particular test, I have a few doubts. I think he is a little too reliant on his elite ball striking, and for me, he still has to prove he has the short game for these conditions. He can go close, but I don’t think he is major ready, just yet. Not for me over four days on links golf.

23. Colin Morikawa – 6 Stars – ★★★★★★

I’ve been quite cold on Collin Morikawa for months and months, simply because I didn’t think his game was where it needed to be. However, after getting back into the winner’s circle recently, he’s starting to look like the major champion we know he is. He already has two from the 2020 PGA Championship, and the 2021 Open Championship. His biggest weapon has always been his iron play.

Few players in world golf control their distances as well as Morikawa at their peak level, and when he’s dialed in with his approaches, he creates birdie chances for fun. His driving isn’t the strongest part of his game, but I actually think Royal Birkdale is forgiving enough in that department that it shouldn’t hold him back too much.

The one area I’ve always had a grudge with though, is his putting. It’s the only part of his game that prevents me from fully trusting him, particularly under major championship pressure. That said, everything else looks to be in excellent shape. If the putter behaves, he has all the tools needed to contend for another Claret Jug. He has a chance.

24. Chris Gotterup – 6 Stars – ★★★★★★

Chris Gotterup has been one of the most relentless winners in golf this year, already picking up five victories on the PGA Tour and climbing all the way to world number six. There is no doubt he is one of the most talented players in this field and deserves plenty of respect.

However, I just can’t bring myself to back him in an Open Championship, just yet anyway. His unique shot shape and golf swing are a huge part of what makes him so effective, but replicating that consistently in unpredictable links conditions is a completely different challenge. He obviously does an incredible job of controlling it, and his Scottish Open win proves he can handle these venues, but I still have doubts about how reliable it is when the wind gets up and the conditions become difficult.

He will be a popular pick this week and plenty will fancy him to contend, but personally, he’s one I’m happy to watch rather than back. Next year could be a completely different story, though.

25. Justin Thomas – 6 Stars – ★★★★★★

Justin Thomas is one of the best ball strikers in the game and a player with the ability to shape shots both ways, which is always a huge asset in major championship golf. His creativity and quality around the greens are also strengths on paper, so it would be foolish to completely dismiss him.

However, I just don’t love the fit for him here. Thomas is at his best when he can be aggressive, attack pins and play with that high risk, high reward style, but I think that approach can quickly backfire on links courses. He often looks like he plays every shot at 110% power, and that isn’t always the ideal mindset for The Open, where patience and discipline are so important.

He is an excellent player who thrives on many parkland layouts, but I’m not convinced links golf brings out his best. The short-game creativity gives him a chance, but I would rather see a slightly more controlled version of Thomas before getting involved this week. Top 20 contender still.

26. Hideki Matsuyama – 6 Stars – ★★★★★★

Hideki Matsuyama is always a player to respect in major championships. A proven winner with one of the best iron games in the world, his ability to control his ball flight and attack pins makes him a dangerous contender on any demanding course.

His Masters victory proved he can handle the pressure of the biggest moments, and his approach play gives him a huge advantage when conditions become difficult. The question is whether his putting can hold up, and that would be the big concern.

Hideki is never one to overlook though, despite not looking in peak form. Top 20 contender.

27. J.J. Spaun – 6 Stars – ★★★★★★

2025 US Open champion J.J. Spaun has a good chance here, and he could be an interesting player to watch this week. His consistency from tee to green should suit this golf course well, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see everything click for him. He also comes in with a win this year at the Valero Texas Open, where his reliable ball striking was key.

While Valero and Birkdale are very different tests, the qualities that helped him win there, his accuracy, his consistency, and strong course management, are the same requirements here. Spaun is unlikely to attract the same attention as some of the bigger names, but he is a player who quietly goes about his business and has the game to put together a strong week. He should not be underestimated.

28. Jake Knapp – 6 Stars – ★★★★★★

Jake Knapp is a real dark horse for me this week. He is an outstanding ball striker with a smooth, but powerful swing, and his ability to shape shots could be a big asset on this course. He may not be the obvious name many people are looking at, but his game has a lot of qualities that can translate well here, and I could absolutely see him being capable of posting a low number here.

Knapp has the length to compete, while also possessing the control and shot making ability needed to handle a demanding layout. He is still relatively inexperienced at the highest level, but he has already shown he can win on the PGA Tour. If the ball striking is at its best, he could be a very live outsider and one to keep an eye on. Worth a second look for sure.

29. Sepp Straka – 6 Stars – ★★★★★★

Sepp Straka is an interesting contender who has proven form in the Open having finished runner-up in 2022. When in form, his tee-to-green play is excellent, with strong ball striking and the ability to stay patient around difficult courses. He has enjoyed a solid enough season without winning.

The main question though, is whether everything clicks at the same time, but his consistency and all-around game make him a realistic contender. He may not be the standout pick, but he is the type of player who can quietly put himself into the mix if the conditions suit. He will need his best game though, and he hasn’t quite found it yet this year.

30. Nicolai Hojgaard – 6 Stars – ★★★★★★

Nicolai Hojgaard is one of the better drivers of a golf ball, and he has all the talent to put together a strong week. It’s just a case of what is a strong week for Nicolai? His iron play can be a little inconsistent, but when it clicks, it is among the better players, giving him the ability to attack pins and make plenty of birdies.

He has shown he can compete on the biggest stages with a tied 16th finish at the 2023 Open Championship and a tied 12th finish at the 2024 Masters. He is still searching for his first PGA Tour victory, but his performances in major championships suggest he is certainly capable of a top 20 finish, maybe even a top 10.

31. Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen – 6 Stars – ★★★★★★

Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen is a player I like, and I actually think Royal Birkdale should suit his game very well. He is an excellent tee-to-green player, strikes his irons with real quality and generally keeps the ball under control. He has all the attributes that are vital around a demanding links course.

The concern for me is whether he is quite ready to win an Open Championship. Competing is one thing, but lifting the Claret Jug is another thing altogether, and this may just come a little too early in his career. I certainly wouldn’t be surprised to see him feature on the leaderboard at some stage during the week, and he could post a number low enough to finish inside the top 20, and maybe inside the top 10. He is an interesting outsider this week, and could certainly surprise a few.

32. Matt Wallace – 6 Stars – ★★★★★★

Matt Wallace will receive a lot of home support this week, and he is well versed to links golf. He has shown he can compete in this championship before, having finished tied 7th in 2019. The concern is consistency, as his game can fluctuate from week to week, making him difficult to trust over four rounds.

If Wallace finds his best form, he is more than capable of outperforming expectations, but with so many strong contenders in the field, a potential top 20 finish looks a more realistic target than a win.

33. Berndt Wiesberger – 6 Stars – ★★★★★★

Bernd Wiesberger is a very good tee-to-green fit here. He has plenty of experience on links courses and has always been a strong wind player with a reliable all-around game. He has won big events and knows how to handle pressure.

He is not quite the player he once was, but this type of course can bring out his best and he could outperform expectations, by a fair way, too. Good player, and a good set up for him here. Top 20 contender, and hopefully a good price for it, too.

34. Andrew Novak – 6 Stars – ★★★★★★

Andrew Novak is a player to consider this week and one who could quietly surprise. His game actually fits this test better than many may expect, with a strong all-around profile and the ability to stay patient.

If he gets comfortable early, I could see him building some momentum. A player who could seriously outperform expectations.

35. Matthew Jordan – 6 Stars – ★★★★★★

Matthew Jordan is a very talented player on his day and has plenty of links experience, including playing The Open multiple times at Royal Liverpool and Royal Troon. He has the patience and creativity required for this type of golf, and I think links just brings out the best in him.

He may just be missing a few small attributes needed to seriously contend, but a top 20 finish is certainly within his capabilities, maybe even a top 10.

36. Dan Bradbury – 6 Stars – ★★★★★★

I really like Dan Bradbury as a player. If you rank him amongst the field, he isn’t near the top, but if you match his attributes to Royal Birkdale, he ranks much higher, and that’s the way to look at it here. He unquestionably has the capability to score well around this golf course.

He has a ton of links experience, he is a winner on the DP World Tour, and I think he is an extremely interesting contender this week at Royal Birkdale. He has all the tools to significantly outperform his British Open odds.

37. Cameron Young – 5 Stars – ★★★★★

Cameron Young is a player who has shown glimpses of brilliance, and his natural ability is blatantly obvious. His tee-to-green game is the biggest strength, with plenty of power off the tee and a strong ability to control his irons.

His Open record is actually very encouraging. He finished tied eighth in his Open debut at St. Andrews in 2022 and then went on to finish runner-up at Royal Liverpool in 2023, proving he is more than capable of handling the unique demands of the championship. The concern for me is his current form. He has struggled to find the consistency that saw him rise into the world’s elite, and while the game is clearly still there, he doesn’t look like the player who was regularly threatening leaderboards.

For an Open Championship, I want someone arriving with confidence and momentum, and I’m not sure if he has that right now. He has the ability to compete, but in his current spell of form, I don’t see him having the mindset needed to go and win an Open Championship. The world number four is not for me here.

38. Bryson DeChambeau – 5 Stars – ★★★★★

My stance on Bryson DeChambeau at the moment is fairly straightforward. When everything clicks, he’s one of the best players in the world, but his mindset has to be right as well, and at the moment, everything just feels a little off. There’s no questioning his ability.

He is a two-time US Open champion, winning by six shots at Winged Foot in 2020 before edging out Rory McIlroy in a dramatic finish at Pinehurst in 2024. Timing is everything in golf though, especially when it comes to major championships. You want players arriving full of confidence, comfortable with every part of their game, and I’m not convinced Bryson is in that place right now. His driving hasn’t been as dominant as we’ve come to expect, his iron play has been below his usual standard, and the putter has been fairly average too. He has missed the cut in four of the last five majors.

There is no doubt he has the talent to win The Open, but for me, this doesn’t feel like the right time to be backing him. He isn’t peak Bryson right now, and that concerns me from a betting standpoint.

39. Brooks Koepka – 5 Stars – ★★★★★

Brooks Koepka led after the opening round here in 2017 with a superb 65 before eventually finishing tied for sixth. Now back on the PGA Tour, he’s looking to work his way back to the very top since returning from LIV Golf.

We know what he’s capable of winning as a multiple major champion, but to me, his game still doesn’t quite look back to major-winning level. At his best, he’s always a danger, but I don’t think this is his year. He’s not back there yet.

40. Jordan Spieth – 5 Stars – ★★★★★

Jordan Spieth will always have fond memories of Royal Birkdale after winning The Open here in 2017. He closed with a superb final round 69, producing one of the most memorable finishes in recent major history to lift the Claret Jug.

The problem is, I just don’t think he’s the same player anymore. I’ve been critical of Spieth for a while now, and I don’t see a golfer capable of winning another major in his current form. I could see him starting well and putting himself in contention heading into the weekend, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he faded over the final 36 holes.

The class is still there in drips and drabs, but for me, he’s well short of major-winning level right now.

41. Alex Fitzpatrick – 5 Stars – ★★★★★

Alex Fitzpatrick is a fascinating contender this week and one I think could surprise a few people. He’s had a very strong year, and his overall game has continued to improve, particularly from tee to green where he has looked extremely solid.

He might not have the same profile as some of the bigger names in the field, but his consistency and quality of ball striking make him a dangerous player on a links course. If he can get the putter working, there’s no reason why he can’t get himself into the mix. He’s certainly one I wouldn’t be taking lightly. He has a chance for a top 10 or 20, or potentially a massive win!

42. Cam Smith – 5 Stars – ★★★★★

2022 Open winner Cam Smith has had a very quiet few seasons, and I don’t think you can come into an Open off the preparation he has had and expect to win the tournament. His game at peak form is obviously very fitting for the course, and it’s easy to get roped in by that, however, he just isn’t the same player right now.

A serious talent, but very hard to make a case for him this year.

43. Si Woo Kim – 5 Stars – ★★★★★

Si Woo Kim has one of the best swings in golf, and when everything is timed correctly, he is capable of competing with anyone. His ball striking is elite, and he has the talent to contend on any course.

The issue has always been consistency. He simply does not win as often as his ability suggests he should, so backing him to pop up and win an Open feels risky. He is a top 20 contender, but that’s as confident as I’d get about his chances.

44. Brian Harman – 5 Stars – ★★★★★

Brian Harman is one of the strongest links course fits in the field. His Open Championship win in 2023 highlighted everything that makes him dangerous in this event, good accuracy, patience, creativity, and the ability to handle tough conditions.

He may not have the power of some of the bigger hitters, but his control, consistency, and short game make him extremely effective on demanding links layouts, and that’s what’s enabled him to compete with the best players. His form has been steady rather than spectacular this season, but this is the type of test where his strengths come to the forefront.

A proven major champion and an excellent wind player, Harman is not someone to overlook. He has already shown he can deliver on the biggest stage, and another big week would not be a surprise. Albeit, he would need his best golf to win. Interesting though, for sure.

45. Akshay Bhatia – 5 Stars – ★★★★★

Akshay Bhatia is an interesting outsider this week. He has one of the more impressive swings on Tour and is an excellent ball striker, with the ability to shape shots and flight the ball however he wants, a skill that can be a huge advantage on a links course.

The concern is consistency. Bhatia has shown flashes of brilliance, but he can struggle to put together four competitive rounds and occasionally throws in a poor round that takes him out of contention. His aggressive style can be a strength, but it can also get him into trouble.

That said, the talent is undeniable. He has already proven he can win at the highest level, and if he can stay patient and avoid the big mistakes, his creativity and shot-making give him the ability to be a dangerous player this week. Maybe one for the top 20 market, or a first-round leader candidate.

46. Adam Scott – 5 Stars – ★★★★★

A man who possesses one of the best golf swings we have ever seen, and probably never wise to write him off. However, he is far from a prolific winner these days, and even if he is hanging on after two rounds, I don’t think he will be able to maintain it over four.

A former Masters champion, but his best days are behind him.

47. Keegan Bradley – 5 Stars – ★★★★★

Keegan Bradley is always an interesting contender in major championships, and there could be time for him to add one more major to his 2011 PGA Championship. He has a game built for big occasions, a decent ball striker and the ability to compete when the conditions get tough.

His consistency can sometimes be a concern though, but when his swing is in shape, he is more than capable of challenging in a links setting. He has plenty of experience and could be a top 20 contender this week, maybe even top 10 if things fall his way. It is a fairly big ‘if’ though.

48. Alex Noren – 5 Stars – ★★★★★

A player who rarely does anything spectacular, but he consistently gets the most out of his game. He has no real standout weapon, but his accuracy, experience, and steady approach make him able to stay involved at this level. He is the type who can outperform his odds, especially on a demanding course where patience and avoiding mistakes are rewarded, but this is a proper tough test.

A top 20 finish looks possible, but a win would be a very big surprise. He will likely need everything to go perfectly to seriously contend, and that’s always unlikely on links courses. Top 20 contender, perhaps.

49. Tom McKibbin – 5 Stars – ★★★★★

Tom McKibbin is one of the more talented players in the field for links golf and someone who could easily outperform his expectations this week. His game is obviously well suited to links golf, with a smooth swing, excellent ball striking and the ability to control his trajectory, all the important attributes around Royal Birkdale.

He has already shown he can compete at a high level, and his calm temperament should help in a major championship environment. He may lack experience compared to some surrounding names, but the talent is obvious. If his irons are firing, he has the ability to put together a very strong week. Top 20 contender.

50. David Puig – 5 Stars – ★★★★★

David Puig is an exciting young player with plenty of natural ability. His short game is a major strength, and he has shown he can score well when his touch and confidence are high.

The challenge here is that links golf demands more than just creativity around the greens. He will need the very best version of his tee-to-green game to genuinely contend, but his talent means he cannot be completely ruled out. I think he will make the cut.

51. J.T. Poston – 5 Stars – ★★★★★

J.T. Poston is a player who could outperform expectations if he finds his best form. The main question though, is whether he can produce his best against a stronger major championship field.

He is not a leading contender, but he is a player who could quietly surprise a few people, and it wouldn’t be the biggest surprise were he to feature. Potential value as a longshot to win, and a strong top-10 or top-20 contender.

52. Jordan Smith – 5 Stars – ★★★★★

Without question, one of the best ball strikers on either tour, Jordan Smith has more Open Championship experience than many may realize. He has played in five Opens previously, finishing inside the top 50 on three occasions.

On paper, his skill set matches this course extremely well. He is a pure ball striker, excellent at controlling trajectory, and possesses strong distance control, all very key attributes for a demanding links test. Not many have all of those, but Smith does, so he is very well suited here.

His putting and poor final rounds have often been the main weakness, but links golf feels very natural for his game. If that part holds up, he has every chance of significantly outperforming his odds this week. A longshot to consider.

53. Lucas Herbert – 5 Stars – ★★★★★

Lucas Herbert is a player who actually suits this type of golf better than most. He has already proven himself on links courses, winning the Irish Open at Mount Juliet and showing the patience and creativity needed in these conditions.

His short game is a real strength, and he knows how to grind out a score when things get difficult. The concern is consistency, but this is a course where he can absolutely outperform expectations on his good form.

54. Matt McCarty – 5 Stars – ★★★★★

Matt McCarty is a player that it’s hard to make an obvious case for this week, but he is one of the players that I just feel may play really well. We do tend to get one or two American players outshine their expectations in an Open, and he may be one that can handle it.

I think he will manage the course well, and he is consistent enough through the bag to think he can produce some decent golf at Royal Birkdale. One to consider.

55. Dan Brown – 5 Stars – ★★★★★

Dan Brown announced himself on the biggest stage at Royal Troon in 2024, leading The Open after the first round before eventually finishing tied 10th. That performance proves he can handle links golf and the pressure of a major, although replicating that level again is the big question.

He has a shorter backswing than most which makes his golf swing repeatable, and that’s why when his game clicks, he can compete in the big events. Do not underestimate Dan Brown, he is one of the long shots to consider.

56. Ben Griffin – 4 Stars – ★★★★

I really liked the chances of Ben Griffin for the US Open and the PGA Championship, but it didn’t really go to plan.

Seeing him come over to England and scoring well at Royal Birkdale feels unlikely to me. A major champion in waiting perhaps, but not this side of the water, and not just yet.

57. Corey Conners – 4 Stars – ★★★★

One of the better iron players on the PGA Tour, but he doesn’t win anywhere near enough with all things considered. He has a very loose position with the irons at the top of the back swing, and that’s what makes him volatile in my opinion. He is far too inconsistent.

Also, even if he is at his best with his irons, his short game is very questionable on links golf courses. I wouldn’t fancy Corey Conners too much on this set up, but would consider him more for parkland course events.

58. Tom Kim – 4 Stars – ★★★★

Tom Kim has just bounced back out of nowhere to win the Scottish Open and that came as a surprise to me, despite the course form. It’s certainly encouraging to see him striking the ball better again, and a repeat performance of last week gives him a chance. There is no guarantee he backs that up though.

This is links golf again, but a very different test, and perhaps last week was the one to follow Tom Kim in on. I’ll make a call and say that Tom Kim won’t make the cut this week, which may surprise a few.

59. Joaquin Niemann – 4 Stars – ★★★★

Joaquin Niemann has been the standout player on LIV Golf over the past couple of seasons, and there’s no doubting the quality he possesses. On pure ability, he’s good enough to win a major. The concern is that his Open Championship record is extremely poor.

In six appearances, he hasn’t managed a single top 50 finish, which is a huge red flag for a player of his ability. I’m also not convinced LIV Golf has done his game any favors when it comes to preparing for major championship venues. The talent is obvious, but until he proves he can transfer that form to The Open, I’ll be happy to look elsewhere.

60. Rickie Fowler – 4 Stars – ★★★★

Rickie Fowler is an interesting outsider for The Open this year. His season has quietly been much better than many realize, with his game showing clear signs of returning to a high level. He has put together several strong performances and has looked far more competitive against elite fields again.

The biggest positive has been the overall quality of his game. When Fowler is confident, he remains one of the best shot makers in golf, with the experience and creativity needed to handle a links test. His ability to shape shots, manage difficult conditions, and stay patient makes him a natural fit for The Open.

The biggest question mark is consistency, as he has struggled to put four complete rounds together regularly. However, he has proven throughout his career that he can rise to the occasion, with a strong record in major championships and big events, and it’s unlikely you need four good rounds to win here with the difficulty of the course. If Fowler finds his best form this week, he has the experience and skill set to surprise a few people.

He is certainly not the player he was a decade ago, but the signs are encouraging, and he remains a dangerous contender on a links course. Top 20 contender would be a result for Rickie.

61. Eugenio Lopez-Chacarra – 4 Stars – ★★★★

Eugenio Lopez-Chacarra is having a scintillating season on the DP World Tour, already picking up three wins at the Indian Open, Italian Open, and KLM Open. He is an extremely talented player and looks set to make the move to the PGA Tour next season. His short game is a real strength, and he has shown he has the ability to win and handle pressure.

However, I’m not convinced this type of links test is the ideal fit for his game. He is capable of producing some brilliant rounds, but over four days, I have plenty of players I would prefer ahead of him in this event. That being said…you never know!

62. Harry Hall – 4 Stars – ★★★★

Harry Hall is a solid all-around player who does many things well. He is consistent, competitive, and has the ability to put together good scores, but this may not be the ideal test for his strengths.

The Open often rewards elite specialists with proven links experience, and Hall probably falls just short of that profile. He can outperform expectations and put together a respectable week, but he is unlikely to be one of the main contenders. Hard to place.

63. Daniel Berger – 4 Stars – ★★★★

Daniel Berger is a better fit for links golf than many people realize. His controlled ball flight, strong tee-to-green game, and patient approach make him well suited to this type of test. He has also shown he can compete in The Open, recording a tied 6th finish in 2021 and a tied 13th in 2019.

The concern is that he has struggled to convert promising positions into wins, and there are stronger contenders in this field. He could make the cut, though.

64. Tony Finau – 4 Stars – ★★★★

Tony Finau has the talent to contend in any major championship, when he finds his best form. The slight concern is that links golf does not always play to his biggest strengths, with his natural ball flight better suited to softer conditions.

He has the quality to put together a strong week, but there are stronger course fits in this field. From a betting perspective, he wouldn’t be for me.

65. Gary Woodland – 4 Stars – ★★★★

The 2019 US Open winner can probably play himself into the top 20 this week if he performs at his best.

He is an excellent driver of the ball, and if he gets a little momentum going, he could post a few decent rounds to bring him up the leaderboard. A live outsider, perhaps.

66. Angel Ayora – 4 Stars – ★★★★

Angel Ayora looks like a future star of the game, but this may come slightly too soon for him to seriously challenge for a major championship. That said, this DP World Tour player has already shown he can handle links conditions, finishing fifth at both the Irish Open and the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship.

Those performances suggest the setup should suit his game, and with his talent and confidence, he is more than capable of playing well. A strong showing on his Open debut would not be a surprise, and making the cut feels like a realistic target.

67. Thomas Detry – 4 Stars – ★★★★

Thomas Detry is an interesting player here, but I’m not convinced this is the perfect setup for him. He is a very good ball striker with plenty of length, and when his game is on, he is very classy.

However, links golf does require creativity and patience, and that is still something he is learning. He has enough quality to make the cut, but he has struggled in the final round many times, and I don’t trust him to see out a major tournament. Making the cut would be a result, still.

68. Louis Oosthuizen – 4 Stars – ★★★★

The 2010 Open Champion who knows exactly what it takes around links golf. Louis Oosthuizen has one of the best swings in the game and his smooth tempo is built for this type of golf. He has the experience, the patience, and the class.

The concern is, his best days look behind him now so he is hard to back, and he is far from consistent right now.

69. Max Greyserman – 4 Stars – ★★★★

Max Greyserman has shown plenty of ability and is a player who can put together some impressive performances when his game is flowing. He is a strong ball striker with good length, but links golf is a completely different challenge, and he has limited experience in these conditions.

He has enough quality to make the cut, but I think he needs everything to click to get involved towards the top of the leaderboard.

70. Nick Taylor – 4 Stars – ★★★★

Not hugely consistent, but Nick Taylor is the ultimate competitor, and he can easily outplay his market expectations. He doesn’t have any flashy attributes, but he does well with the skills he has, and I think he could sneak inside the top 20 here on a good week.

Just as a reminder, he is a five-time PGA Tour winner. He knows his job well.

71. Sami Valimaki – 4 Stars – ★★★★

PGA Tour winner Sami Valimaki wouldn’t be an obvious fit here by any means, but he is capable of scoring at nearly any course.

I’m not sure that he will be able to maintain it over four days, but don’t be surprised to see him start quickly out of the blocks. A potential first-round leader contender here.

72. Eric Cole – 4 Stars – ★★★★

Eric Cole is a very good putter and that is always a useful weapon around a difficult links course. He has the ability to grind out scores and stay competitive, but I’m not sure he has enough from tee to green to seriously challenge here.

A solid week is possible, but seeing him in contention would surprise me. Potentially one to make the cut.

73. Keita Nakajima – 4 Stars – ★★★★

Keita Nakajima is a very naturally talented player and has plenty of ability. His iron play is a real strength, and he has shown he can compete at a high level. The lack of links and Open experience is the concern, but his quality means he should not be underestimated.

If he finds himself comfortable in the opening round or two, he may just hang around for the weekend.

74. Sungjae Im – 3 Stars – ★★★

I think the level of form from Sungjae Im has disappeared quite significantly over the past couple of seasons, and he isn’t your typical fit for a links golf course.

His ball striking and approach shots haven’t been good enough even at parkland courses with soft greens, so coming to links golf at Royal Birkdale, hardly seems like a positive either. He wouldn’t be for me.

75. Sahith Theegala – 3 Stars – ★★★

On paper, you could look at the credentials of Sahith Theegala and think he is a decent fit for Birkdale, but that’s not really the case. He is wild off the tee, his irons have been off for a long time, and even though he has posted four top 10s this season, he just doesn’t look comfortable on the course at all.

His short game may be able to salvage him a half decent score, but I don’t like Sahith as a fit this week. Potentially one that could even miss the cut.

76. Patrick Cantlay – 3 Stars – ★★★

Patrick Cantlay hasn’t won a solo tournament for over four years now, and his game isn’t the best suited to links golf. He is often underpriced and overbet, and wouldn’t be a player I’d be interested in backing at all.

I’d be highly surprised if he was contending come Sunday. Personally, he is one to avoid.

77. Max Homa – 3 Stars – ★★★

Max Homa is far from a good fit here. His short game and mentality are major strengths, but his driving can often be a big weakness, and that could be exposed around a demanding links course.

He has the quality to put together a solid week and make the cut perhaps, but he looks highly unlikely to challenge for the Claret Jug.

78. Billy Horschel – 3 Stars – ★★★

Billy Horschel finished second at Royal Troon in 2024, and he is quite consistent on links golf courses. Even outside of that runner-up effort, he has finished inside the top 25 a few times, and seems to be able to handle these conditions well.

There is nothing flashy about his game, and I don’t think he will ever get as close as runner-up again, but he could be a decent price to make the cut. For win purposes though, he’s not got much chance.

79. Dan Hillier – 3 Stars – ★★★

One of the classiest players on the DP World Tour, but he is a very volatile scorer. Dan Hillier regularly throws in double bogeys in amongst good scores on parkland courses, so I personally think links golf will be a struggle for him.

I’m a big fan of his, but not around here. Potentially a missed-cut contender.

80. Casey Jarvis – 3 Stars – ★★★

A two-time DP World Tour winner this season, and they came back-to-back. He won the Magical Kenya Open, and then went to his homeland a week later and won his national Open in South Africa. He is full of class, but I would have him in the same mold as Daniel Hillier for this week.

In the sense that even though he scores well, he makes a fair few bogeys and doubles, and it feels like that will be enhanced at this sort of course. I think he could struggle this week.

81. Ryo Hisatsune – 3 Stars – ★★★

A very well-rounded player who won the French Open before moving on to the PGA Tour in 2025. He has had some good results since the switch, but the Open Championship is completely different, and he missed the cut on his only attempt to date at Royal Troon in 2024.

This tournament will do his experience the world of good for the future though, and he could make the cut.

82. Sam Stevens – 3 Stars – ★★★

Sam Stevens has quietly had a very strong season and showed his major potential at the US Open, where he was in contention deep into the week before finishing tied 7th.

He is a solid ball striker who can handle difficult conditions, but just because he played well in the US Open, doesn’t mean he will back it up here. It will be a difficult test for him.

83. Andy Sullivan – 3 Stars – ★★★

Andy Sullivan is an experienced player who knows how to grind, and that can never be overlooked in an Open Championship. He has played in this event before and has the patience required, but his form has been inconsistent, and he lacks the standout weapon needed to really push towards the top of the leaderboard.

He’s a good player, but he would be a genuine surprise winner this week.

84. Laurie Canter – 3 Stars – ★★★

Canter is an intriguing outsider this week. Royal Birkdale should suit plenty of what he does well, particularly his controlled soft fade off the tee and his excellent draw iron play, both of which are valuable assets on a links layout that rewards precision and the ability to shape the ball in the wind. If conditions get tough, his ball striking gives him a chance to hang around.

The concern is his form. He hasn’t produced his best golf this season, and a disjointed schedule has made it difficult for him to build any real momentum. While the course fit is better than many will realize, he arrives with enough question marks that he’s difficult to back with confidence.

A player with the tools to outperform his price, but one who still needs to rediscover his best form. The weak schedule he’s had this season is very off-putting, which is a shame.

85. Shaun Norris – 3 Stars – ★★★

Shaun Norris has won all over the world, and he is a very good ball striker who can be excellent from tee to green when his game is firing.

He has the ability to handle tough conditions and keep himself in position, but the question is whether he can produce enough quality in the scoring areas. Capable of a good week, but unlikely to contend.

86. Dustin Johnson – 2 Stars – ★★

Former world number one Dustin Johnson isn’t the player he once was, and I wouldn’t give him much chance here this season.

He is way off it, and over four rounds, I’d be highly surprised if he even came near the top 20.

87. Jackson Koivun – 2 Stars – ★★

Jackson Koivun is one of the most exciting young players in world golf and, in my opinion, he has the potential to become a genuine superstar. His amateur career was exceptional, and he already looks like a player with the temperament and ball striking ability to succeed at the highest level.

However, this Open Championship comes far too soon for me from a betting perspective. Royal Birkdale is a demanding links test where experience counts for plenty, and that’s something Koivun simply doesn’t have yet. The ability is there, but learning how to handle Open Championship conditions against the world’s best is a completely different challenge. The talent is unquestionable, but the lack of experience makes him one to avoid this week.

88. Jayden Schaper – 2 Stars – ★★

A very exciting 25-year-old from South Africa who has won twice on the DP World Tour this season. He claimed the first in his homeland of South Africa, before heading to Mauritius two weeks later and backing it up with another win.

This will be valuable experience for Jayden Schaper, but he is probably not quite ready to be contending at this level just yet.

89. Keith Mitchell – 2 Stars – ★★

Keith Mitchell is a talented player, but I’m not convinced this is the right test for him. His biggest strength is his power off the tee, but links golf often rewards precision, patience, and creativity rather than just length.

He has some major experience, but his Open record is poor, missing the cut in all three previous appearances. A solid week is possible, but I struggle to see him seriously contending. Maybe a missed cut contender.

90. Taylor Pendrith – 2 Stars – ★★

Taylor Pendrith is another powerful player who could benefit from the length of Royal Birkdale, but I’m not sure the rest of his game is suited to this challenge. He can be excellent from tee to green when firing, and his ball striking gives him a chance of making the cut, but the short game and accuracy can be big concerns.

He has the ability to make the cut, but I think contending would require his very best. He has one PGA Tour win, and that was back in 2024. For someone who can be so dialed in at times, he contends nowhere near enough. Links golf will be tough for him.

91. Alex Smalley – 2 Stars – ★★

Alex Smalley has very little links golf experience and does not immediately look like an obvious fit for this type of test from tee to green. The positive however, is that his short game could prove valuable here.

He is creative around the greens, has a reliable wedge game, and his putting has been a real strength, as he showed in his impressive second place finish in the PGA Championship. I think contending may be a big ask, but he is more than capable of making the cut.

92. Bud Cauley – 2 Stars – ★★

A PGA Tour winner this season, but not one for links golf by the looks of his attributes.

Deserves to be here, but I expect him to be well short of the required standard here. Not one to side with in the market.

93. Michael Brennan – 2 Stars – ★★

Michael Brennan is a good young player with a lot of talent, but this is a huge step up. He has a good all-around game and can strike the ball well, but a links Open Championship is a completely different challenge, and something he has basically no experience on.

He is capable of making the cut if everything clicks, but this is more about gaining experience than expecting a big finish.

94. John Parry – 2 Stars – ★★

John Parry is a proper journeyman who has done well to get himself into this field, but this looks like a huge ask.

He lacks the overall quality needed to compete with the best in the world on a course like this. Experience helps, but I think he could come up pretty short here.

95. Jose Luis Ballester – 2 Stars – ★★

Jose Luis (Josele) Ballester qualified for The Open at Royal Birkdale through Final Qualifying at West Lancashire Golf Club. He finished tied second there after shooting 70 and 65 for a -9 total, earning one of the five available spots from that venue. He finished with an eagle on 16, and a birdie on 18 to secure his place.

He is a quality player who has been playing on LIV, but his first attempt at the Open is likely to prove difficult. Very talented, but unlikely to be his year.

96. James Nicholas – 2 Stars – ★★

A Korn Ferry Tour winner who made the cut at the US Open last month. He is a talented player, and we are likely to hear about his name for years to come, but this probably comes to soon in regard to seeing him as a contender here.

His putting is by far his best asset though, so he could hold a score and potentially make the cut as a longshot.

97. Francesco Molinari – 2 Stars – ★★

Few players in the field understand links golf better than Molinari, and his experience and strategic approach should always be respected at The Open, which he won in 2018 at Carnoustie. Royal Birkdale rewards accuracy and patience, two qualities that have defined his career.

However, at 43, his lack of distance and declining ball speed leave him with little margin for error against a world-class field. While he still has the course management to make the cut, it’s difficult to see him contending unless the conditions become extremely demanding and the championship turns into a battle of survival.

98. Jackson Suber – 2 Stars – ★★

Suber is one of the more intriguing Open Championship debutants. He has enjoyed a breakthrough season built on solid ball striking and a composed all-around game, giving him the tools to become a world-class player.

The question mark is his lack of links experience, as Royal Birkdale presents a very different test to the courses he’s become familiar with. If he adapts quickly to the conditions, he has the talent to outperform his odds, but expecting him to contend on debut may be asking too much.

99. Padraig Harrington – 2 Stars – ★★

You can never completely rule out Harrington at The Open. The two-time Champion Golfer of the Year still possesses one of the sharpest strategic minds in the game, and his wealth of links experience makes him a dangerous competitor if conditions become demanding. While age has inevitably taken away some distance, he continues to strike the ball well.

Over four rounds, it’s difficult to see him keeping pace with the game’s elite, but don’t be surprised if he once again outperforms expectations and features on the leaderboard. He could make the cut!

100. Scott Vincent – 1 Star – ★

Scott Vincent is a big outsider and there are plenty of question marks. He has plenty of power and can put together good rounds, but he has limited experience at this level and links golf is a demanding test that looks unlikely to suit.

The main goal will be gaining experience, and making the cut would be a strong result.