Europeans can break the PGA duck
One of golf’s biggest home jinxes will be put to a serious test at Oakland Hills this weekend – and I wouldn’t mind betting that a piece of history will indeed be made.
Unbelievably, no European has claimed the US PGA Championship title since Scottish-born Tommy Armour lifted the trophy 78 years ago, but they will surely have no better chance of breaking that duck here in Michigan. Indeed, no fewer than eight Europeans in action this weekend have fond memories of this course having thrashed the Americans here in the Ryder Cup four years ago.
Despite the fact the course is playing a lot tougher, and around 300 yards longer than it was in 2004, that kind of memory or positive thought might well inspire one of them to end the American dominance in this final Major of the season.
Primed
Naturally, all eyes will be on double Open champion Padraig Harrington after his win at Royal Birkdale, and with the confidence he possess at the moment, few would bet against him adding a third Major to his collection.
But he will undoubtedly face competition from the in-form Lee Westwood, who is playing fantastically well at the moment after his second place finish to Vijay Singh in the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational on Sunday. After his third place in the US Open, Lee looks primed to go that extra step and take a big title and this is as good an opportunity as any.
Paul Casey finished the WGC with a final round 65 and that must’ve done wonders for his confidence, but my favourite is Spaniard Sergio Garcia. Sergio has been knocking on the door for far too long now, and his time has surely come. Conditions should suit and Sergio’s always a favourite with the American fans.
As for me, it hasn’t been the best fortnight of my golfing career, and hopefully now two weeks off will iron out a few problems I experienced in the US Seniors Open at the weekend.
While I don’t think there’s a great deal wrong with my overall game, my putting is just not right at the moment and rounds of 79 and 77 were never likely to be challenging the cut round the Broadmoor club.