Green Blazers

Five outsiders to watch at the Open

SERGIO GARCIA Spain

Age: 22. World ranking: 5. Major victories: 0.

Europe's best hope and, as the 1998 Amateur champion at Muirfield, one of the few contenders who has won at this unique links. Has won twice this season, in Hawaii and Spain, and partnered Woods in the final pairing of the US Open before letting the chance of his first major slip. The experience has done him no harm. Odds: 20-1.

DAVIS LOVE III United States

Age: 22. World ranking: 13. Major victories: 1.

With two second places in his last two events, the American contingent here this week have targeted Love as the one who may stop Woods. The 1997 USPGA champion has an unenviable Open record, his best finish being seventh at Carnoustie, in 1999, but this week's soft fairways and benign conditions should suit. Odds: 25-1.

JUSTIN ROSE England

Age: 21. World ranking: 48. Major victories: 0.

If Rose is to beat the world No 1 then he will probably have to play all four rounds with Woods. Has won four times already this year, like Tiger, and, as his fourth place as a 17-year-old amateur at Birkdale in 1998 illustrates, he is not scared of the spotlight. Whether he can withstand such scrutiny this time remains to be seen. Odds: 40-1.

MICHAEL CAMPBELL New Zealand

Age: 33. World ranking: 22. Major victories: 0.

Campbell went close at St Andrews in 1995 before an injury ruled him out for a few years. The Kiwi is now back to full form, as he proved in Dublin a fortnight ago by winning at the European Open despite finishing with a run of bogies. A confident starter who may well be one of the early pacesetters. Odds: 50-1.

ANGEL CABRERA Argentina

Age: 32. World ranking: 15. Major victories: 0.

Big hitter with a deft short game who could click this week. Won his maiden title in front of his home crowd at Buenos Aires last year and is a player to be feared. Missed a putt on the last hole in 1999 Open to join the play-off eventually won by Paul Lawrie. A lively outsider. Odds: 80-1.