Luke Donald came away from Dubai on Monday having achieved what no other golfer has done – headed both the U.S. and European money winners list. Players need to complete 15 tournaments in the U.S. and 13 in Europe to qualify for either title – Donald has completed both, and is now headed to Australia to play in tomorrow’s Australian Masters. You would think that, following a tough schedule, he would be looking for a break from the game, but like all professional sports people, he is striking while hot.

The Australian Masters is the last major event won by Tiger Woods before his fall from grace; not surprising, he isn’t in the field this year. In fact, the field is pretty devoid of top class golfers outside the top five or six. If anything, it can make finding a winner harder rather than easier, since lesser known golfers can take advantage and sneak a tournament win.

Bookmakers have made Donald the favourite at 4/1 ahead of Australia’s Geoff Ogilvy (10/1) and Robert Allenby (13/1). John Senden and Greg Chalmers are the next best at 14/1. Defending Masters champion Stuart Appleby is unwanted at 35/1, however, he won last year playing through back pain, and he returns to this event this year with the same problem. He probably hopes it’s a promising sign.

It’s hard to go past Donald when making a selection. He came from 30th at one stage in the Dubai Classic to finally finish third, a good example of his never-give-up attitude. He’ll enjoy the playing conditions at the Victoria Golf Club, especially if the weather is warm and dry as predicted. Greg Chalmers is in good form having won a title in November and he too plays well on home soil. We’re tipping Donald, however, we suggest you also review your bets at the half way stage. There are a lot of average to good golfers in this years event who could sneak a win.