Ahead of the start of The Open Championship on Thursday, we look at three dark horses who could upset the odds.

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ZACH JOHNSON

The two-time major winner has posted one top-five and six top-10 finishes this season. And although he has yet to contend for any titles, his game always remains in top shape through the year. At 42, the gritty Georgia man still has buckets of playing ability in him and enters this weekend ranked 20th in the scoring average. Could be a threat on the fast greens of Carnoustie this weekend.

TONY FINAU
Age: 28
Last five tournaments: T57-T13-MC-5-T21

The American has been superb this season, with top-10 finishes in the two major events this year – T10 at Augusta and fifth at Shinnecock Hills. In nine major tournaments, the Utah native has missed the cut twice, with neither coming at his two previous Open Championship appearances in 2016 and 2017. His overall record in 2018 is rock solid, recording four top-10s and five top-25s in 15 starts, including second place at the Genesis Open. If he can gather some momentum, he could take over the fast greens with his powerful game.

FRANCESCO MOLINARI
Age: 35
Last five tournaments: 1-2-T25-1-T2

The Italian has rediscovered his form this year and looks one of the best-placed players heading into this year’s Open. The 35-year-old has posted five top-25s and two top-10s, including wins at the BMW PGA Championship and Quicken Loans National. Although he has only managed three top-10s in 36 major starts, this could be the year when Molinari kicks into gear and mounts a strong challenge. Sergio Garcia won his first major at 35, so what’s stopping the Turin man from achieving the same feat?