The US Open starts tomorrow and the previous winner, Matt Fitzpatrick, must be excited to defend his trophy. Played at the Los Angeles Country Club, this par 70, 7421 yard monster is going test the skills of the entire field. With a mixture of players from all over the world, I often wonder if the US Open actually brings the strongest players together for a national championship. As of today, the usual suspects are at the top of odds list and one of them are likely to rise to the top of leaderboard on Sunday. The US Open set up is often the lead story on Thursday and I am confident that nothing will change this year. Regardless, I have my own views on who will win with one surprise.<

Los Angeles Country Club has not hosted the US Open so this will be a unique experience for all the players. No prior history or experience will benefit the top ranked players. It will be interesting how they respond this amazing looking golf course. To bring you up to speed as to what faces the US Open field, here is a hole by hole look:

After watching the hole by hole video, I have decided to take a different approach to predicting the US Open winner. I think the length will be the deciding factor. Hitting the fairway to set up an approach shot to the proper side of the green will be key. Of course putting will be important and that is why being on the proper side of the pin will be critical. I realize I am describing the way to win any Major, but this is especially true this year. My choices for top 3 finishers will be based on my above strategy.

In third place, Scottie Scheffler. He is always in the mix and I do not see this weekend being any different. He has the entire package that avoids high numbers. Unfortunately, he will miss a few makeable putts and come up a bit short this year.

In second place, Viktor Hovland. Hovland is having a great season. Unfortunately, he will not be able to close the deal. He will play very well for the first three rounds, but will not be able to put much together on Sunday. I might be wrong about this, but the winner will be on a hot streak and Hovland will not be able to dose that fire.

My choice of winner for the 2023 US Open is Patrick Cantlay. He is in the top five in many stats and is due. I think he will start fast and will lead the field on Sunday. The key to his success will be a high greens in regulation percentage. Leading the field in GIR will set up his putter to close the deal.

You will notice that I left Jon Rahm, Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka off the list. I think that these players will struggle this weekend with their putter and that will be their downfall. It happens every Major and this year will be no different.

The US Open usually plays in the toughest conditions; this year will be no different. I can see Patrick Cantlay rising to the top. Regardless of what happens, the real winners will be the fans.

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