With two days to go, it is time to update your Open Predictions. Previously played at the Royal Birkdale nine times, this years event appears to have no dominant favorite. I am sure if you read the power ratings, the top golfers in the world are ranked high as potential winners, but I am not entirely sure this will be the case.

The Claret Jug – Image from theopen.com

Playing as a par 70 at just over 7100 yards, the Royal Birkdale, this course is situated on the coast, has a sandy landscape, tight fairways and challenging greens. However, the real factor for this year’s Open will be the weather. If the wind starts to howl, it will be anyone’s championship to win.

As you pick your champion, I think it is important to choose someone who can play in the wind. Someone who can navigate the challenging course and understands the when to press an advantage and when to play for par. Therefore, I recommend a European player is well suited to take home the Claret Jug.

Except for Hideki Matsuyama, none of the top players in the world are playing with any type of dominance. Each has the ability to rise to the top and claim the third Major of the year, however I am not sure they will. Brooks Keopka, the US Open Champion is a favorite, but his game of late is not well suited for the Royal Birkdale track. So who to predict as the next Open champion.

Early in the year I thought Danny Willett would be a great choice, however, his game is not up to par and I think I will change. I was on the right track with an European, but just the wrong one. Rory McIlroy’s game is very poor as of late and although you can never count him out, 2017 is not his year. There are a few other Europeans who have the game and any number will make a run on the weekend.

However, I predict Justin Rose will be there at the end of The Open on Sunday. I think Rose is poised to win. He missed the cut at the US Open, but finished second at the Masters. He is a proven winner and has the demeanor to win at Royal Birkdale.

Everyone involved in the predictions contest at The Grateful Golfer, now is the time to make a change. With just two days left, you still have time to second guess your original choice.

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

Original article written by Jim Burton at thegratefulgolfer.com