The Open 2018 tips and odds: Rory McIlroy, Rickie Fowler and Jon Rahm are top hopes

GOLF’S biggest and best Major is back in town just in time for the summer heatwave.

But how do you pick a winner from a 156-strong field at tough Carnoustie? And can the Europeans finally win a big one back from the Americans, who hold all four of the game’s top trophies?

Here, SunSport’s men on the ground have picked out their top tips for the week.

Check out the best odds supplied to back a winner and raise a glass as they raise the Claret Jug.

Who is your favourite to win the Open?

David Facey: Rickie Fowler – 18/1

Shown himself to be a links specialist and due a Major.

Phil Thomas: Jon Rahm – 25/1

Won the Irish Open a couple of years ago in foul weather and is ready for a breakthrough in the big ones.

Andy Dillon: Sergio Garcia – 30/1

Who can forget his play-off defeat to Padraig Harrington? Now a Masters champ and new dad, the time is right for redemption.

Sam Morgan: Rory McIlroy – 20/1

Swing looks on-song this week and actually comes in a bit under the radar. Slower greens could help his up-and-down putting.

Where should my money go for an outsider?

DF: Thorbjorn Olesen – 100/1

PT: Eddie Pepperell – 175/1

AD: Marc Leishman – 45/1

SM: Beau Hossler – 175/1

Who could be my each way banker?

DF: Sergio Garcia – 30/1

PT: Patrick Reed – 40/1

AD: Justin Rose – 16/1

SM: Francesco Molinari – 33/1