Dustin Johnson is in confident mood ahead of The Open at Troon
By Mark Crellin
Last Updated: 14/07/16 9:55am
Dustin Johnson thinks he will lift the Claret Jug on Sunday if he produces his best golf at The 145th Open, live on Sky Sports.
The 32-year-old American enters the week as the form player in the field, having ended his wait for a major title by winning the US Open at Oakmont last month.
In his only outing since then, he triumphed in the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational and he could become the World No 1 this week if he triumphs and Jason Day finishes outside the top ten.
Johnson was not inclined to play down his Open chances when he spoke to the media on the eve of the tournament and he thinks that he could be even more dangerous now he has shed his tag as something of a nearly-man in the majors.
"I like my chances, but I go into every tournament liking my chances," said Johnson.
"I always feel like I'm the best player in the world, but that's just me. I've got a lot of confidence in my game. Obviously I'm playing very well right now.
"I always expect to come out and perform and to contend but it's definitely a little bit different coming out and not trying to win that first major. That's the biggest difference.
"It's a good feeling, for sure. On Sunday, if I'm in contention, just knowing that I can get it done is a big confidence booster coming down the stretch."
Asked directly if he thinks he will win this week if he brings his best stuff, Johnson replied: "If I have my best stuff, I believe so."
The number of golfers who have pulled out of the tournament at the Rio Olympic Games this summer due to concerns about the Zika virus has been a major topic of discussion this week.
Johnson said he had wanted to participate but that he had to put his family first.
"I wanted to go play but, just for me at the end of the day, me and Paulina, we're going to have more kids," said Johnson.
"I know the risk is very low but, if something were to happen, I'd never forgive myself for that.
"For me, it just came down to my family being more important. So that was the biggest decision for me.
"It was all family. Me and my team just sat down, and I made the decision ultimately."
