Tiger the overwhelming favorite at Bethpage

Woods eyes repeat at U.S. Open
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By Mark Lamport-Stokes
FARMINGDALE, New York (Reuters) - The omens could hardly be more favorable for triple champion Tiger Woods when he launches his U.S. Open title defense in Thursday's opening round at Bethpage State Park.
Not only is he the greatest player of his generation and arguably of all time but the world number one also won at Bethpage in 2002, the first time the event was staged here.
"I'm excited to be back," the American told reporters while completing his preparations for the second major of the year. "Obviously this golf course brings back some great memories for me.
"My practice rounds have all been good and I'm really looking forward to Thursday. I like my chances in any major."
Woods, the overwhelming favorite in pursuit of his 15th major victory, builds his entire schedule around the grand slam events where his focus and motivation are second to none.
As for bringing good form into Bethpage, he has that totally sewn up after winning the Memorial tournament 10 days ago in his most recent PGA Tour start.
"It's always nice to play well going into a major championship," said Woods, who has been listed by British bookmakers William Hill as the 7-4 favorite.
"To get a win always adds to the confidence, no matter how you win, and especially going into a U.S. Open. Generally this is the hardest major we face, year-in and year-out."
The brutal par-70 Black Course became the longest U.S. Open venue of all time in 2002, playing 7,214 yards off the back tees.
It has since been lengthened to 7,426 yards and this week will feature three par-four holes in excess of 500 yards. With rain forecast for all four rounds, the course will play ultra-long.
GRINDING OUT PARS
Length has never been a problem for Woods, who also relishes the U.S. Open emphasis on grinding out pars at the most relentless of the four majors.
"He's by far and away the favorite but I don't think anyone walks around saying we're playing for second now because Tiger's here," said 2006 champion Geoff Ogilvy of Australia.
"Everyone appreciates how good he is, knows he's going to be in contention and hopes to get there with him. He's obviously hard to beat."
Phil Mickelson, who finished second behind Woods in 2002, believes Bethpage will present a tough but fair test. Continued...
Source: Reuters