Has finished fifth at the Open twice, at Troon in 1997 and at Muirfield in 2002. Current holder of the European Order of Merit title and freely admits that the next natural step is to win a Major. Has 11 wins in Europe and two in America to his credit and is a stalwart of Europe’s Ryder Cup team. Patchy form this season. Great rounds not matched by consistency.

Opened with an 8-under 63 at the Nissan Open but finished seventh. Shot a third-round 68 at the Masters, finished seventh. First-round leader at the Wachovia Championship with a 66 before finishing 43rd.

However, in Europe beat Bradley Dredge on the first hole of a playoff to capture the Irish Open. You can’t write him off, despite another Oakmont disaster.