The piercing stare of ruthlessness that was absent in the last 51 weeks has returned. Confirming rumours of his demise had been greatly exaggerated, Padraig Harrington bounced back to form in spectacular fashion at the WGC Bridgestone. The Dubliner’s display proves that he’s the second best golfer in the world at the moment, regardless of rankings. While he lacks Tiger Woods‘ ridiculous consistency, he can go toe-to-toe with golf’s greatest player. Harrington’s slump had been reminiscent of a period when Tiger perfected his swing and it seems Pod has too emerged an even better golfer.

One moment of pure magic was followed by a moment of tragedy on the 16th hole at Firestone. Both players were put on the clock for slow play which halted Pod’s momentum. Why the final group, who were contesting the title and providing compelling TV viewing, were told to ‘hurry up’ is a bit strange. CBS showing the next episode of Cold Case wasn’t more important, was it? The collapse on the 16th when he looked like he’d tamed the Tiger was unfortunate, but the Irishman is now well placed to defend his USPGA Championship title and hopefully resist doing that cringeful celebration again. Drowning his sorrows with copious amounts of Guinness won’t be a priority after his so-called ‘gaffe’. The Dubliner will be back, but not because he’s a glutton for punishment - he’s a winner and he wants to win.

Tiger’s Major form is the only negative in what has been a great season for a man just back from reconstructive knee surgery. In this kind of mood, Tiger should get his paws back on the Wanamaker Trophy at Hazeltine National. Pod won’t give it up without a fight though, but the signs are ominous. If Bridgestone was the tasty hors d’oeuvres, the main course at the US PGA will be absolutely delicious.
 

Backing Tiger won’t make you rich so the value must come in the shape Stewart Cink. The Open Champion had a glimmer of hope to get in the mix at Firestone, but poor shots on the 17th and 18th saw him slip back for tied sixth. To prove he’s no flash in the pan like Rich Beem, Ben Curtis or even Todd Hamilton - God forbid; the American will be determined to finish in the places.

Will it be Major-less season for Tiger? Who’ll be your e/w bet for the USPGA? Are my Shamrock shaped specs clouding my judgement? Let us know your thoughts on the last Major of the year.

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