Olympic Golf: An Overview

A look at the contenders for gold at Le Golf National

The 2024 Paris Olympics has got underway and it promises to be a great showcase of numerous sports, with golf being one event I am particularly looking forward to.

Golf was reintroduced to the Olympic roster in 2016 after a 112-year absence, and it has since become one of the most eagerly awaited events, bringing together the world's top golfers in a unique, high-stakes environment.

Golf at the Olympics offers a distinctive challenge compared to the traditional tours and majors. It is not just about individual glory but national pride, much like the Ryder Cup is for the U.S. and Europe. Representing a country on the global stage adds an unmatched layer of pressure and excitement. The format for both men’s and women’s competitions is a 72-hole stroke play tournament at Le Golf National across four days of competition.

Previous Medalists - 2016 Rio de Janeiro

Mens - Gold: Justin Rose (Great Britain), Silver: Henrik Stenson (Sweden), Bronze: Matt Kuchar (United States)

Womens - Gold: Inbee Park (South Korea), Silver: Lydia Ko (New Zealand), Bronze: Shanshan Feng (China)

Previous Medalists - 2020 Tokyo

Mens - Gold: Xander Schauffele (United States), Silver: Rory Sabbatini (Slovakia), Bronze: Pan Cheng-tsung (Chinese Taipei)

Womens - Gold: Nelly Korda (United States), Silver: Mone Inami (Japan), Bronze: Lydia Ko (New Zealand)

Let’s take a look at who’s in contention in Paris.

Men's Golf : Top Country Contenders at the Paris 2024 Olympics

United States

The U.S. men’s golf team is a powerhouse, packed with talent. Leading the charge is world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, known for his consistent performance and calmness under pressure. He is joined by Xander Schauffele, the 2020 Olympic gold medalist and a player who is in great current form after recently winning his second major of the year. He brings invaluable experience and a proven track record in the Olympic arena. Collin Morikawa, a two-time major winner, and Wyndham Clark, the 2023 U.S. Open champion, complete this formidable lineup.

The level of skill and experience makes the U.S. team a top contender, and in my opinion, favourite for one of these guys to win the individual gold in Paris.

Ireland

Ireland's team boasts four-time major champions Rory McIlroy and Open champion Shane Lowry who has also achieved top-four finishes in all four major championships. McIlroy, with his four major titles and numerous PGA Tour victories, is a standout performer and if he’s on his game can certainly be a threat for gold. Lowry, who finished tied-6 at the recent Open Championship after a strong first three days, adds depth to the team and also poses a threat for a medal.

Great Britain

Great Britain's team includes Matt Fitzpatrick, the 2022 U.S. Open champion, and Tommy Fleetwood, a regular contender in major tournaments. Fitzpatrick's meticulous approach and Fleetwood's flair for the dramatic provide a balanced and dynamic duo, capable of excelling in the Olympic format. If last year’s Ryder Cup is anything to go by, we know Tommy thrives in these international competitions.

There are of course many other individual contenders for gold like Hovland (Norway) and Rahm (Spain), to name a couple, but I image the gold will go to one of the countries mentioned above.

Women's Golf: Top Country Contenders at the Paris 2024 Olympics

United States

The U.S. women's team features Nelly Korda, the current world No. 1, 2020 Olympic champion and a player who’s in incredible form this year, alongside Lilia Vu and Rose Zhang. Korda’s dominant performance in recent years, Vu’s major wins and consistent play, and the young Zhang with two tour wins under her belt make this team exceptionally strong and a contender for gold in Paris.

South Korea

South Korea’s team is always in contention in women’s golf, led by Jin Young Ko, Amy Yang, and Hyo-Joo Kim. Jin Young Ko’s precision and consistent top rankings, Yang’s extensive experience and steady performance, and Kim’s strong presence on the tour provide a formidable lineup. This depth and consistent high-level play make South Korea one of the top contenders for Olympic gold.

Australia

Australia's women's team features Hannah Green and Minjee Lee, both of whom have made significant impacts on the international golf scene. Green, the 2019 Women's PGA Championship winner, brings experience and a proven track record in major tournaments. Minjee Lee, a consistent top performer on the LPGA Tour and a major champion herself, adds strength and depth to the team. Their combined skills and experience make Australia a contender in the quest for Olympic gold​

China’s Yin Ruoning, Britains Charlie Hull, and France’s Céline Boutier are also names that could compete for the top of the podium.

Overall, the U.S. teams' depth positions them as favourites in both the men’s and women's competitions and they’re capable of winning multiple medals, but the individual brilliance of various players from several countries could certainly change that narrative. As the tournament progresses, the ability to handle the unique pressures of the Olympics will be crucial.

The men’s individual stroke play begins at Le Golf National on Thursday, August 1st while the women’s begins on August 7th.

Thanks for reading, David Skilling

---

Get featured in a rapidly growing golf newsletter 📈

Baller Golf is growing fast and we have a passionate audience who love the game. We have advertising options for golf brands, courses, and more. Get in touch.