I am totally confused! This weekend’s Major at Royal Troon Golf Club is a beast that must be tamed by one of the field if they want to become part of golfing history. The challenge I have is trying to predict a winner for this tournament!

The top players in the world are all over the place. The odds-on favorites could be at the top of the leaderboard on Sunday or on their way home after missing the cut. The only person playing a consistent golf is Dustin Johnson. However, is he ready for “The Troon” or will he be “Trooned”? (I just made up my own word – being “Trooned” means that the course defeated the player resoundingly)

The list of potential winners is long and varied. I think that just about any player in the field has a chance to win, but the European Players have a slight advantage. They are more accustom to playing courses like the Royal Troon in windy and potentially wet weather. For this reason, I think that a European will walk away with the Claret Jug this year!

The first player to watch this year is Danny Willett. I believe he will finish second behind the eventual winner. He will make an early charge on Sunday, but will fall behind down the stretch. With one Major already under his belt in 2016, The Masters, his consistent and steady game will play well at Royal Troon. I do not think he will be Trooned!

The second player that will be in the mix on Sunday is Justin Rose. I think it is his time to shine. He has struggled a bit of late with injuries, however Rose will battle it out with Willett for second place on Sunday. Eventually he will finish third.

Jordan Spieth, Jason Day, Dustin Johnson, Adam Scott and Rickie Fowler will all be Trooned. of the 5, two will miss the cut and the rest will not play not be contenders on the weekend. I have nothing to base this on except that, except for Dustin Johnson, their games are hit and miss. I realized I am going against the norm, but I think this is what will happen.

On a side note, I think Phil Mickelson and Matthew Fitzpatrick will finish in the top 10! They will play well and finish just under par.

Now to my winner; I have given this some thought and see Rory McIlroy raising the Claret Jug over his head on Sunday. He is due for a breakout game and to win another Major! The Royal Troon is the challenge he needs and if he stays smart, he will win this weekends event.

On a side note, for those who have not submitted their choices, you have until Wednesday Midnight to add prediction for the 2016 The Open Championship.

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!