The Open Championship: Power ranking the top 10 for Carnoustie

CARNOUSTIE, SCOTLAND - APRIL 24: A view of The Claret Jug for The Open Championship media day at Carnoustie Golf Links on April 24, 2018 in Carnoustie, Scotland. The 147th Open Championship will take place at Carnoustie between 19th-22nd July 2018 (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images) /

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SOUTHPORT, ENGLAND – JULY 20: Justin Thomas of the United States watches his shot from the rough on the 16th hole during the first round of the 146th Open Championship at Royal Birkdale on July 20, 2017 in Southport, England. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images) /

While Justin Thomas looked dapper in his sweater and tie last year, he’s hoping for a little substance to go with his style in his third Open Championship start.

He disappointed with a missed cut at last year’s Open at Royal Birkdale, though it clearly didn’t rattle his cage too much as he won the PGA Championship a month later.

In fact, he hasn’t missed a cut since. Thomas is twice a winner this PGA Tour season (CJ Cup, Honda Classic) and owns six total top-10s. He proved he can, in fact, play across the pond as he finished T8 in his last start two weeks ago at the Open de France.

Thomas has fared well against strong fields this year. He was inside the top 25 at the two majors, T11 at the PLAYERS Championship and inside the top four at both WGCs.

This will be Thomas’ first start at Carnoustie.

He may have to dial it back off the tee a bit for more accuracy (152nd on the PGA Tour in fairways hit), but he’s got length throughout the bag that stacks up against any this week.

Thomas is also fourth in strokes gained putting, 38th in sand saves and seventh in SG approach (thanks to first in fairway proximity).

Here’s to thinking his third Open Championship start will be the charm in 2018.

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