Top American Tip: Davis Love III

Although, we have flagged up Dustin Johnson as a decent shout for this week, the ‘Top American’ betting market looks much weaker than normal. The absence of Tiger Woods opens things right up and one of the wily old campaigners could be well-placed to take full advantage. Davis Love III has a better Open record than most of his compatriots and there are recent signs that he is returning to something close to his best form. At odds of 35/1 with Betfred to be the top US player, the 47-year-old rates as a great each-way bet.

Those put off by Love’s age should remember there is a definite trend for the old guard rolling back the years in this particular major. The most recent and dramatic example is Tom Watson, who in 2009 was just one putt away from claiming the Claret Jug at 59-years-old. Last year Mark Calcavecchia was second heading into the weekend at age 50.  In 2008 Greg Norman finished T3 at Birkdale at the age of 53. Davis Love is much younger than any of these guys and comes into the tournament looking very capable.

Crucially, the man from North Carolina had a superb week the last time the Open headed to Sandwich in 2003. Love was in contention throughout, leading after round two, before ultimately finishing T4 with Tiger Woods, just two shots back from the winner. The Ryder Cup veteran also finished T5 the following year and has enjoyed a total of five top-10s in all.

The former US PGA champion is entering the majors with purpose yet again after a T6 in the US Open last year and a T11 at Congressional just last month. A T12 at this year’s Players Championship and another T12 at the John Deere Classic just last week suggests he will be knocking at the door if he can sink a few more putts. At 35/1 with Betfred to finish as the leading US player, he is a great each-way pick with the top four getting paid out at quarter odds.