We Love Sport takes a look at all the potential candidates to lift the famous Claret Jug

The last major of the year, begins this Thursday! Who will be lifting the Claret Jug on Sunday night? All we know is that there’ll be plenty of twists and turns along the way. 

The man who raised the Claret Jug at Hoylake nine years ago is favourite to do so again… but will he?

We Love Sport favourites for the Open Championship 

1. Rory McIlroy

Rory McIlroy seems to be favourite in every major, but he is in a massive drought. We all know he has the quality but he doesn’t seem to be able to play well for all 4 days.

However, coming off the win at the Scottish Open means that he is peaking at the perfect time. Also, coming second at the US Open can become a great learning experience, he will have the hunger and ability to finally end his long drought without a major victory. 

2. Rickie Fowler

A Rickie Fowler victory would be a fairytale story. During the period from 2021 to 2022, Rickie Fowler unfortunately did not qualify for several major championships. However, in the past month, Fowler has experienced a resurgence in form. He achieved an impressive T5 finish at the U.S. Open, setting a new all-time major scoring record.

Additionally, he shot a remarkable 60 at the Travelers Championship and secured victory at the Rocket Mortgage Classic, marking his first win in four years. Rickie Fowler is in unbelievable form and playing some the best golf he has ever done, so if there was a chance finally to get a major win, the time would be now.

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3. Brooks Koepka

Mr. Major, Brooks Koepka, is set to return to Liverpool for another thrilling competition. With an impressive collection of five major titles, Koepka solidified his standing as a golfing force with a brilliant victory at the PGA Championship held at Oak Hill in May. While known as an American golf specialist, Koepka has also demonstrated his prowess at The Open, achieving four top-ten finishes in the past.

It’s worth noting that Royal Liverpool’s course may not heavily favour raw power, potentially posing a challenge to some of Koepka’s dominant strengths. However, given his exceptional form and consistent performance, there is no doubt that Koepka will be a contender in the mix once again as the tournament reaches its climax on Sunday evening.

4. Cameron Smith

Cameron Smith left many romantics disappointed as he shocked Rory McIlroy and emerged victorious at the historic 150th Open held at St Andrews last summer. With a remarkable final round of 64, the Australian golfer surpassed McIlroy and claimed the prestigious Claret Jug. Smith will return the coveted trophy on Monday morning, only to set his sights on reclaiming it and bringing it back down under.

As part of the LIV Tour, Smith’s exceptional form has persisted, evidenced by his impressive T9 finish at the PGA Championship and a fourth-place finish at the US Open. He further solidified his position as one of the best in the game by clinching victory at the recent LIV Golf London event at Centurion. Given his remarkable skills and recent successes, it would hardly come as a surprise if Smith manages to retain his Gold Medal at the upcoming tournament.

Who will be lifting the Claret Jug on Sunday night? Join us for all the action!