How do the British and Irish men's Olympic golf prospects feel ahead of a return to a course that they are all familiar with and can golf reach the heights of Major glory?
For some, including a number of the World’s best male golfers, the Olympic Golf tournament isn’t necessarily top of their lists, as fans to watch and from the golfer’s perspective, play in. But as we await the start of the men’s Olympic Golf for the third time in recent Games history at Le Golf National, it feels like there is starting to be a shift in its importance. Don’t get us wrong, we know it’s never likely to top a Major victory but it might just become a must-win, like it is for so many athletes every four years.
So how do the British and Irish prospects feel ahead of a return to a course that they are all familiar with and can golf reach the heights of Major glory?
Ireland's Duo: Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry
Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry, bring a wealth of experience and a shared history of memorable moments on this golf course. McIlroy, who could now be called a seasoned Olympian, expressed his excitement for the event and his desire to improve on his previous performance in Tokyo, where he narrowly missed out on a medal. “Personally, I was close to getting a medal last time and obviously would love to try to go one or two or three better and get a medal,” he said, highlighting his ambition for the Paris Games.
Lowry, who had the honour of carrying the Irish flag during the Opening Ceremony, described the experience as “amazing” and one he would remember forever. He emphasised the significance of the Olympics for golfers, a sentiment echoed by McIlroy, who acknowledged the evolving prestige of an Olympic medal in the sport. “As golf is in the Olympics for a longer period of time, it will become more of...I don't know if anything will be able to sit alongside the majors, but I think this is going to be, in time, right up there amongst that,” McIlroy stated.
Team GB: Matt Fitzpatrick and Tommy Fleetwood
For Team GB, Tommy Fleetwood and Matt Fitzpatrick bring their own blend of enthusiasm and Olympic pride. Fitzpatrick, making his Olympic debut, shared his early impressions of the event, noting the unique atmosphere and the camaraderie among athletes. “It's been really cool. Really enjoyed it so far,” Fitzpatrick said. The experience of being part of Team GB has given him a new appreciation for the Olympics, potentially highlighting how a gold medal has grown in significance in his mind.
Fleetwood, who has fond memories of Le Golf National from the 2018 Ryder Cup, echoed this sentiment. “I think now, I have kids, and over the first couple of days, I'm watching Frankie watch things like synchronized diving and all this stuff, and he's supporting Team GB and he thinks winning the gold medal is like the most amazing thing,” Fleetwood shared, reflecting on the broader impact of the Olympics beyond individual achievements.
Chasing men's Olympic golf glory
The golfers also discussed their strategies and hopes for the Paris Olympics. McIlroy and Lowry reminisced about their experiences in Tokyo and how the different atmosphere in Paris, free from strict Covid-19 restrictions, has allowed them to enjoy the Olympic spirit more fully. Both golfers are keen to watch other events and support their fellow Irish athletes, with Lowry expressing a particular interest in seeing some of the Irish competitors in action.
Fitzpatrick and Fleetwood, familiar with the challenges of Le Golf National, feel confident and optimistic about their chances. Fleetwood noted, “I think it's quite a bit more forgiving. I remember it being pretty thick and brutal [in 2018],” which may help with the mental edge it can provide.
The prospect of mixed-team events in future Olympics also garnered positive responses from McIlroy and Fleetwood, both welcoming the idea of more diverse formats and increased medal opportunities. McIlroy stated, “If that came to fruition in L.A. where there was a mixed-team event, or even...another team event that was not mixed and Shane and I could play in it if we qualify, yeah, I'd love that.”
As these top golfers gear up for their Olympic challenge, the allure of winning a gold medal remains a powerful motivator. For McIlroy and Lowry, a gold medal would be a monumental achievement, with McIlroy candidly stating, “It would be the achievement, certainly of the year, if not...it would probably be one of, if not the biggest in my career for the last ten years.”
In the end, the Paris Olympics offer these golfers a unique blend of competitive opportunity and the chance to be part of a global celebration of sport. Whether through winning a medal or simply soaking in the Olympic atmosphere, McIlroy, Lowry, Fitzpatrick, and Fleetwood are set to make the most of their time in Paris, aiming to leave their mark on Olympic history.
Find out all you need to know about the 2024 Paris Olympics Golf competition via our guide.
