Open First Round Leader Tips: Mikko Ilonen

Mikko Ilonen is often mistaken as a journeyman pro because he’s been on the European Tour since 2001 but he’s only 33 which means he’s in his golfing prime.

There have been numerous ups and down through the years, to be expected from someone who turned pro at a young age, but there is no doubting 2013 is the best year of his career.

His stroke average of 70.36 is the lowest it’s been when he’s played a minimum of 10 events and his earnings for 2013 are just €4,000 shy of his best ever year and there is still half the season still remaining!

Ilonen’s best result came at the start of June when he won the Nordea Masters but he also has a surprisingly good record at the Open, finishing in the top-20 twice in only four starts.

At 125/1 (Stan James) he is a decent bet in the outright market but I think the best play is to back him to be first round leader.

In 2001, he was second after round 1 and in 2006, he was T7. Even when he finished down the field in 2002, his opening round was still good enough to leave him in a share of 38th.

Mikko Ilonen might not be good enough to go all the way but he could do some early damage. At 100/1 (Stan James) back him each-way to be the first round leader and get ¼ odds if he is in the top-6.