European Tour: KLM Open Power Rankings

This is probably the one and only week of the year where I would put Joost Luiten No. 1 in a power ranking, but it’s hard to pick anyone else.

The 31-year-old is the only Dutch player of note, and he’s done well to impress his home fans and perhaps inspire a younger generation of players.

He’s won the KLM Open twice, including last year’s three-stroke win at 19-under highlighted by a closing 63.

Luiten hasn’t contended for another title since his win last September, but he’s followed up with a steady 2017. His year features 15-of-18 made cuts but only one top 10, which was a T7 at the Lyoness Open in June.

He comes in fairly rested with three weeks off before heading to the Alps last week to tie for 30th at the Omega European Masters. A third round 73 spoiled what was otherwise a stellar tournament of three rounds in the 60s.

“The first one was special but this one is very special,” Luiten told the European Tour after his 2016 win. “To have the Dutch people behind me all week and to be able to stand here with the trophy in my hands is very special.”

Playing in one’s home country can be a distraction for some, but Luiten seems to embrace the support and use it to his advantage. I like his chances to win again donning the Sunday Dutch orange.

Next: BMW Championship: DraftKings Top Value Picks

Who are you watching this weekend in the Netherlands? Will Joost Luiten defend his title and his nation’s pride, or will someone else take it from him on the path to Dubai?