But the while the absence of Tiger Woods - who is recovering from knee surgery - is a huge disappointment to his countless fans, it could make this the most open Open Championship for years.
And former European Tour player Paul Eales, who has swapped his clubs for a mike this week as on-course reporter for the Beeb, believes the stage is set for a British winner.
"Tiger's always the man to beat that but there are plenty of guys out there who would still have given him a good run. I expect Lee Westwood, who looks in complete control of his game, to keep his form going and has all the right armoury to give it his best shot.
"He's even more relaxed than usual coming into this week, he's putting well again and hitting the ball straight with his woods and irons, which is essential at Birkdale.
"Westwood has been one of Europe's mainstays in the Ryder Cup - the only item missing from his CV is a major title and it would be great to see him achieve it."
Eales also reckons a resurgent Colin Montgomerie could force himself into contention. "We ask the question of him every time but deep down I feel this could really be his last chance.
"It's good to see Justin Rose returning to the scene of his former glory when he finished fourth at Birkdale in 1998 as a 17-year-old amateur and maybe that will inspire him, although he's been rather quiet recently.
Occasion
"As for defending champion Padraig Harrington, he's not been firing on all cylinders either but he could rise to the occasion again."
Eales refuses to discount Nick Dougherty, despite the additional pressures of playing on his home patch and desperate to hold his place in the Ryder Cup rankings.
"He's banged on the door enough times in Europe and picked off one of the major tournaments last season in the Dunhill Links when he looked composed and every bit a champion.
"He had a great US Open in 2007 and, although he's been erratic lately, a good finish at Birkdale could cement his place in the cup side.
"I'm sure captain Nick Faldo will be looking on to see how he manages the big events, so let's hope he comes though."
Eales also feels it's time Aussie Adam Scott stood up to the plate and performed in a Major.
"I'm a big fan of his and he'll be disappointed with his Open record but this could be his year which would be appropriate with his family originally coming from Freckleton.
"He was in the frame at Loch Lomond but then faded out of the picture.
"It's difficult to pick an outsider but I would expect David Horsey to do well, not just because he's won twice on the Challenge Tour, but because he's more than a complete player and he will be excited about playing his first Championship.
"Sweden's Robert Karlsson could be a strong contender and, of the Americans, if Phil Mickelson gets his driver under control he could well be up there.
"He's probably America's best bet because they're a bit thin on the ground this year."
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