The build-up to the US Open is well and truly underway and the next stop to Congressional Country Club is this week’s Memorial Tournament at Muirfield Village in Ohio.
Bet with Betfair on golf and get £25 free.
He was runner-up here last year on his debut at Muirfield Village, he's the very first man out on the course on Thursday morning, and if you think this writer is going to stop beating the Rickie Fowler 40.0 drum this week you're crazy! What kind of obsessive would I be if I didn't tip up our orange friend this week?!
Last year Fowler was in full control of the tournament after shooting 65-66 on the first two days only to give way on the weekend to Justin Rose's greater experience. He's yet to get over the winning line but I'm hoping the experience Fowler has picked up over this past year will stand him in good stead on his second attempt at winning the Memorial.
Europe's own young superstar Rory McIlroy 32.0 has had a tough time since his Masters meltdown and upon arrival for a clinic with tournament host Mr. Nicklaus this week, Jack greeted him with the words "I'm gonna kick your rear end" alluding to McIlroy's Augusta meltdown and the chat they had had previous to it. Perhaps meeting Jack again this week will inspire an improved performance from Rory who played some decent golf at Wentworth despite having Manchester United's doomed clash with Barcelona firmly on his mind. McIlroy was tenth here last year and surely won't be far away.
Mr Consistent Matt Kuchar 19.5 must be on any shortlist this week. Kuch has been in the top 13 here for the past four years here and given the air miles racked up by new World number one Luke Donald of late I'd much rather be with Kuchar (who has looked like he's playing himself into form) at nearly twice the price.
Dangers:
Last week's tip Jeff Overton 85.0 looks sure to go well again if the Byron Nelson wind hasn't affected his swing and is a very tempting price. Gary Woodland 130.0 could be the rookie that follows in Rickie Fowler's footsteps with a good performance on his debut at Muirfield village this week. Woodland has the Tiger eyes. Watch out for European Tour star Thomas Aiken 150.0 on a rare trip to the USA, Aiken is in the form of his life and it'll be interesting to see how he fares.
