The excitement is palpable as Olympic golf makes its third appearance since being reinstated in 2016. This year, the men's tournament kicks off at the renowned Le Golf National in Paris, the same venue that hosted the 2018 Ryder Cup. Golf enthusiasts can look forward to a thrilling competition, with top players from around the globe vying for the coveted gold medal.
Olympic golf was first played in Paris in 1900 and again in St. Louis in 1904 before taking a 112-year hiatus. The sport made a triumphant return to the Olympics in Rio in 2016 and continued in Tokyo for the postponed 2021 games. This year, Le Golf National’s Albatros Course, located just 26 miles from the Olympic Village, will challenge 60 players from 32 countries, each aiming to etch their names into Olympic history.
Defending gold medalist Xander Schauffele is back to defend his title, fresh off his second major championship victory this season. Joining him in the quest for glory is world number one and tournament favorite Scottie Scheffler, who is looking to add to his impressive tally of six wins this season. Other strong contenders include Spain’s Jon Rahm, Ireland’s Rory McIlroy, Sweden’s Ludvig Åberg, the USA’s Collin Morikawa, and Norway’s Viktor Hovland.
The selection process for the Olympic field is stringent, with players qualifying via the Official World Golf Rankings. The top 15 players automatically qualify, though each country can send no more than four players. This year, seven of the top 15 and ten of the top 20 players in the world are competing, ensuring a high level of competition.
Scheffler leads Team USA, making his Olympic debut with high hopes of capturing a gold medal. He is joined by Schauffele, who aims to secure his third victory of 2024, having already clinched major titles at the PGA Championship and The Open. Collin Morikawa, returning for his second Olympic appearance, and Wyndham Clark, the 2023 U.S. Open champion, round out the formidable American team.
One of the most compelling narratives is the battle between Schauffele and Scheffler for PGA Tour Player of the Year honors. A gold medal win would significantly bolster either player's resume. Schauffele’s quest for a third win this season and Scheffler’s bid to add an Olympic gold to his achievements promise to be highlights of the tournament.
Rory McIlroy’s pursuit of an Olympic medal is another focal point. After missing the cut at The Open and narrowly missing out at the U.S. Open, McIlroy is determined to use the Olympics as a springboard for redemption. A gold medal would be a monumental addition to his career, especially after a decade-long major championship drought.
France’s own Matthieu Pavon will have the home crowd behind him. The 31-year-old from Toulouse is coming off his best professional season yet, highlighted by a victory at the Farmers Insurance Open in February. His participation adds an extra layer of excitement for the host nation.
The men’s tournament begins on Thursday at 9 a.m. local time (3 a.m. ET), with rounds continuing through Sunday. The final round will conclude with a medal ceremony at 12:30 p.m. ET. Fans in the U.S. can catch the action on the Golf Channel and stream it on Peacock, while BBC Sport will provide coverage in the U.K.
With an illustrious field and a historic venue, the Paris 2024 Olympic golf competition promises to be a memorable event, showcasing the sport's best talent on one of its grandest stages.
