Will an American ever win again at the British Open? That chilling thought keeps passing through my consciousness, as the best golfers in the world (except Tiger Woods, Luke Donald and Kenny Perry) do battle at Royal Birkdale this week.
Last year’s champion, Padraig Harrington, injured his wrist hitting an impact ball last week and should not be a factor. But that leaves the rest of the world to stand in the way of an American victory. That, and the fact that no Americans seem primed to claim the Claret Jug.
Tiger Woods, winner of three British Opens since 2000, is back in Florida recovering from knee surgery.
Former British Open champions Ben Curtis (2003) and Todd Hamilton (2004) have retreated back into mediocrity. David Duval (2001) has apparently fallen prey to the mental demons that always lurk in the recesses of a golfer’s mind.
And the hottest golfer in the planet, Kenny Perry, has decided to pass up the British Open in order to play in the Hooters Golf and Fishing Club Member-Guest Tournament. Or some other non-descript event. It’s tough to keep them all straight.
So, what chance does an American have at Royal Birkdale? Slim to none. In recent major championships other than the made-for-Americans Masters, American players, other than those named Tiger, have been dismal failures. Since 2004, Tiger Woods has won six major championships. Of the remaining U.S. Open, British Open and PGA Championships, non-Americans have won six out of eight since 2004.
It would be great if an American jumped up and grabbed the Claret Jug this year, but don’t hold your breath waiting for it to happen.
1 comment:
I am sick of Tiger Woods. I find that since he left with his so called knee injury, I watch more golf on TV. I feel that Woods is over covered by the media and commercial enterprises. There are many more outsanding golfers who do not get the recognition that they deserve. Tiger Woods do us all a favor and stay home for the good of the sport. We don't miss you at all!
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