The 2019 Open Championship returns to Royal Portrush for the first time since 1951 and this year’s event promises to be much more special than in recent years, owing to the strong Northern Irish presence that will be on display in County Antrim. The Open is often regarded as the pinnacle event of the golfing calendar and is by far the oldest major in operation, which makes it rich in history and tradition.
The 2019 event will see the likes of Rory McIlroy, Graeme McDowell and Darren Clarke all fly the flag for the Emerald Isle and if any of the trio can win, golfing immortality awaits. In fact, McIlroy and Clarke have already won the Claret Jug but to do so on home soil will likely provide one of the most iconic and memorable moments in the Open’s extensive history.
Rory McIlroy
As expected, it’s not just the home following who’ll be rooting for McIlroy as he embarks on his quest to win a second Open Championship, but golfing fans and neutrals from all over the world. The 29-year-old comes into the tournament fresh from winning the Canadian Open and he’ll most likely be there or thereabouts come the tournaments conclusion. Currently, McIlroy is the second-favourite, priced at 8/1 to win the Open and although he’ll have the added pressure on his shoulders to keep the home following happy, he’ll likely thrive with what’s at stake.
Graeme McDowell
The local lad turned golfing hero will likely be carrying a heavier burden than his compatriot McIlroy, as Portrush is his place of birth! Despite never winning the Open, McDowell does have one major win to his name and that came at the US Open in 2010; which ended a 40 year drought for European players in the tournament. Currently, McDowell is playing some of his finest golf but he had to rely on a T8 finish at the Canadian Open to be assured of a place in the Open. As it stands, McDowell is a hugely tempting 40/1 to win the tournament and if you think the 39-year-old has it in him, get punting right here: https://www.paddypower.com/golf/open-championship-2019
Darren Clarke
He might be one of the outsiders at 500/1, but Clarke was victorious in the 2011 Open at Royal St George so he certainly has it in his arsenal to cause an upset. His current form leaves plenty to ponder but he offers a plethora of experience that could prove vital come 18th July, and the home following will be cheering on his every shot. Clarke is a Dungannon local and it’s fair to assume he’ll want to put in a performance that makes the home following proud of his efforts. It’ll prove a tall order for Clarke to take home a second Claret Jug but on home soil, anything can happen.
Favourites for the Open
Brooks Koepka – 7/1
McIlroy – 8/1
Tiger Woods – 9/1
Dustin Johnson – 12/1
Justin Rose – 14/1
Jon Rahm – 16/1
Jordan Spieth – 16/1
Francesco Molinari – 18/1
Justin Thomas – 20/1