The 2021 Masters is upon us as fans look forward to an exciting week at Augusta in the first major of the year.
But despite Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry flying the flag for the Irish, the Irish Mirror's golf columnist Gary Murphy fancies Justin Thomas to prevail on Sunday evening.
Ahead of The Masters, Murphy said: "My pick this week is Justin Thomas. He has shown all the qualities required to get the most from himself when it is all on the line.
"His gradual improvement around Augusta suggests to me that he is getting more comfortable in the most uncomfortable of environments."
He added: "He (McIlroy) has fallen down around Augusta by not taking advantage of his approach play. The route to victory for Rory this week stems from his iron play.
"Golf’s grand slam beckons if he can do the business and that would really provide a kick-start to this new relationship (with Pete Cowen).
"These are exciting times for Rory and fans should see it as that."
Here's who Murphy reckons would be worth a punt this week at Augusta:
Gary Murphy's tips
Justin Thomas – 12/1 EW
I feel the stars could align for Thomas this week.
Max Homa – 70/1 EW Riviera victory (above) could be the catalyst for a big week.
Si Woo Kim – 100/1 EW
A winner already this year and capable of springing a surprise.
