Tag: Olympic Golf

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A Golf Year in Review 2024: The Emotional Highlights

The 2024 Golf Year in Review: Moments That Moved the Golf World. (Photos: Getty)

Golf in 2024 was marked not only by outstanding performances on the course but also by moments off the greens that highlighted the human side of the sport. From personal milestones to emotional victories, this year was filled with stories that went beyond birdies and bogeys.

An Alpine Fairytale Wedding: Martin Kaymer’s Personal Highlight

Martin Kaymer turned Castle Elmau in the Bavarian Alps into a picturesque venue for love and camaraderie. Celebrating with his wife Irene Scholz, Kaymer hosted a festive wedding ceremony two years after their private vows. Their son Sam, born in early 2022, took part in the festivities, carrying the rings in a touching moment. Fellow golfers, including Adrian Meronk, shared glimpses of the joyous occasion.

A Painful Loss: Grayson Murray’s Absence Felt Deeply

On May 25, 2024, the golf world was stunned by the tragic news of Grayson Murray’s passing. The 30-year-old, who had celebrated victory at the Sony Open earlier in the year, took his own life after a long struggle with mental health challenges.

PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan remarked, “We lost not only a talented golfer but also a unique individual. The Tour is like a family, and this loss affects us all deeply.”

Olympic Gold: Scottie Scheffler Reaches a Career Pinnacle

The Olympic golf event at Le Golf National became the stage for an intense final. Scottie Scheffler secured the gold medal with a flawless 62 in the last round, clinching the title with a decisive birdie on the 17th hole.

During the medal ceremony, Scheffler tearfully sang the U.S. national anthem as the flag was raised.

Bernhard Langer’s Final Curtain in Europe

Bernhard Langer, the German golf legend, bid farewell to European tournaments in 2024. Despite an Achilles tendon injury that nearly ended his season, the 66-year-old returned to compete in the BMW International Open, his last major European event.

The crowd honored Langer with standing ovations, acknowledging a career that spanned decades. Teeing off with Martin Kaymer and Marcel Siem, Langer reflected on the changes in the game, joking, “The courses are getting longer, and I’m getting shorter.”

Rory McIlroy: US Open of Missed Opportunities

The US Open 2024 at Pinehurst was supposed to be Rory McIlroy’s long-awaited breakthrough, nearly a decade after his last major victory. With a two-shot lead over the final five holes, everything seemed to be going according to plan. But the drama unfolded: two short putts, missed at the 16th and 18th holes, cost McIlroy the title. McIlroy left the course without comment and withdrew from public life for several weeks. Later, he admitted, “It was a tough day, probably the hardest of my career.”

Bryson DeChambeau: Major Win and a Path Back to the Fans’ Hearts

While McIlroy faltered down the stretch, it was Bryson DeChambeau who emerged as the hero at Pinehurst. With a spectacular bunker shot on the 18th hole, which he later called “the shot of my life,” DeChambeau secured his second US Open title after his 2020 triumph. The victory was not only a sporting milestone but also marked a remarkable image transformation.

Once considered a polarizing figure, particularly due to his involvement in the LIV Golf controversy, DeChambeau showed a new side in 2024. In his post-win press conference, he dedicated the victory to his late father and golf legend Payne Stewart, who won the US Open at the same venue in 1999. “I wanted to do it for them,” he said, tears in his eyes.

His behavior on and off the course noticeably shifted. He engaged more with fans and earned praise for his emotional display. The US Open victory thus became both a sporting and personal triumph, symbolizing the evolution of a player committed to change.

A Rising Star: Robert MacIntyre Triumphs in Canada

The RBC Canadian Open 2024 was a breakthrough moment for Robert MacIntyre. The Scotsman demonstrated nerves of steel on a tense final day to secure his first victory on the PGA Tour.

It was not just the sporting achievement that made the story special. His father served as his caddie and shared the defining moment with him. “This is a dream I’ve shared with my dad since childhood,” said an emotional MacIntyre.

Team Spirit and Karaoke: McIlroy and Lowry Win in New Orleans

At the Zurich Classic, Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry showcased the power of friendship on the course. With a playoff victory, the Irish duo clinched the title, proving how much fun golf can be as a team. “Winning with Shane by my side was something special. We’ve known each other for over 20 years – it makes this success even more meaningful.”

The fun didn’t stop on the course: after their victory, McIlroy and Lowry celebrated with gusto, surprising fans with a karaoke rendition of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’.” Images of the singing duo with their WWE-inspired championship belts went viral, making their win one of the year’s most entertaining moments.

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Ladies Tours

Olympics 2024: Charley Hull and Georgia Hall Represent UK

Charley Hull and Georgia Hall represent the UK at the Olympics 2024. (Photos: Getty)
Charley Hull and Georgia Hall represent the UK at the Olympics 2024. (Photos: Getty)

The golf qualification for the Olympics 2024 is complete. After the men’s qualification phase ended last Monday, the women’s participants have now also been decided. While Tommy Fleetwood and Matt Fitzpatrick represent the men, Charley Hull and Georgia Hall will compete in the women’s event. A look at the two female participants from the UK.

Live Scores of Golf at the Olympics 2024

Olympics 2024: Charley Hull and Georgia Hall form UK’s Olympic Duo

Charley Hull currently travels to Paris in eighth place in the world rankings (Rolex Rankings). After two second places on the Ladies European Tour and consistently good performances, the Englishwoman is currently in good form and can therefore hope for a top ranking at the Olympics 2024. Although the 28-year-old’s last victory was almost two years ago, four top-ten finishes this calendar year and a recent good shared 16th place at the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship confirm Hull’s form.

Hull is accompanied by Georgia Hall, who is also 28 years old. She is currently ranked 36th in the world and is currently struggling a little with her form. The Englishwoman has yet to secure a top ten finish this year and her best results were T12 at the Meijer LPGA Classic two weeks ago and the Aramco Ladies International. Georgia Hall celebrated the biggest success of her career in 2018 with a major victory at the Ricoh Women’s British Open.

All Tee Times for Women’s Golf at the Olympics 2024

Olympics 2024: Qualification Process and Criteria

The Olympic Golf Ranking (OGR) determines qualification for the 2024 Paris Olympics, scheduled from August 1-10 at Le Golf National in Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines. The top 15 golfers in the OGR automatically qualify, with a maximum of four players per National Olympic Committee (NOC). Beyond the top 15, the highest-ranked players are selected until the 60-player field is complete, ensuring no more than two players per NOC unless they are within the top 15.

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The qualification criteria for the Olympic Golf Tournament. (Photo: IGF)

Tommy Fleetwood and Matt Fitzpatrick have secured their tickets for Paris in the men’s competition.

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Olympics 2024: Korda, Vu and Zhang form US Olympic Trio

Nelly Korda, Rose Zhang and Lilia Vu represent the US at the Olympics 2024. (Photos: Getty)
Nelly Korda, Rose Zhang and Lilia Vu represent the US at the Olympics 2024. (Photos: Getty)

The golf qualification for the Olympics 2024 is complete. After the men’s qualification phase ended last Monday, the women’s participants have now also been decided. With Ally Ewing missing the Qualification for the first time since golf’s return to the Olympics in 2016, no country will send four players. A look at the female participants from the USA.

Live Scores of Golf at the Olympics 2024

Olympics 2024: Nelly Korda, Lilia Vu and Rose Zhang form Olympic Trio

The bitter failure of Ally Ewing means that the US women’s golf team will be represented three times at the Olympics 2024. The trio consists of world number one Nelly Korda, her direct rival Lilia Vu and ninth-placed Rose Zhang. Korda in particular has dominated this year on the LPGA Tour and has already won six of her ten tournaments. She has won five of them in a row. But Lilia Vu has nothing to hide either: She recently won the Meijer LPGA Classic and followed it up with a shared second place at the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship. Rose Zhang also secured a win on the LPGA Tour this year at the Cognizant Founders Cup.

The rankings in the world rankings alone make it clear that the USA will also be the big favorites at the Olympics 2024. The fact that only three women’s golfers are competing this year will not change this. What’s more, Nelly Korda has already won the Olympics 2020 in Tokyo and will travel to Paris full of confidence.

All Tee Times for Golf at the Olympics 2024

Ally Ewing narrowly misses out on the Olympics 2024 in Paris

Qualification for the Olympics 2024 was particularly bitter for Ally Ewing. The 31-year-old had to finish the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship in fifth place or better to qualify for the competition in Paris later in the summer. Near the end, Ewing was in a tie for second place and qualified, but over the next 90 minutes Lilia Vu, Jin Young Ko and Miyu Yamashita each birdied the 18th to get to four under, pushing Ewing into a tie for fifth place. The American thus narrowly missed out on 15th place in the world rankings, which would have qualified her for the Summer Games.

Olympics 2024: Qualification Process and Criteria

The Olympic Golf Ranking (OGR) determines qualification for the 2024 Paris Olympics, scheduled from August 1-10 at Le Golf National in Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines. The top 15 golfers in the OGR automatically qualify, with a maximum of four players per National Olympic Committee (NOC). Beyond the top 15, the highest-ranked players are selected until the 60-player field is complete, ensuring no more than two players per NOC unless they are within the top 15.

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The qualification criteria for the Olympic Golf Tournament. (Photo: IGF)
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Golf Olympics 2024: Dates and Participants – All You Need to Know About the Tournaments

Golf Olympics 2024: All information on the men's and women's tournaments. (Source: Getty)
Golf Olympics 2024: All information on the men's and women's tournaments. (Source: Getty)

At the golf tournament of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, 60 male and 60 female golfers will be competing for one of the coveted medals and eternal glory. Below you will find the answers to the most important questions about the men’s and women’s Olympic golf tournaments.

Live Scores of Women’s Golf at the Olympics 2024

Golf Olympics 2024: All Information About the Women’s Tournament

When will the golf tournament at the 2024 Olympics take place?

The women’s golf competition at the 2024 Olympic Games will take place from Wednesday, August 7 to Saturday, August 10.

Where will the golfers play the tournament at the 2024 Olympics?

The game is played on the Albatros course at Le Golf National. The course is the venue for the Open de France and hosted the 2018 Ryder Cup, which was won by Europe. The course is located around 40 km from the Olympic Village in the south-west of the French capital Paris.

How many participants will there be in the 2024 Olympic Games golf tournament?

A total of 60 female golfers will be competing in the tournament in Paris. The complicated qualification system is designed to ensure a diverse field with athletes from a wide range of countries. To explain: all players from the top 15 of the Olympic Golf Ranking (OGR), which is based on the women’s world rankings, qualify, with a limit of four golfers per nation. The rest of the field will be filled with the best athletes outside the top 15, with a limit of two women per nation. If a nation, such as the USA, already has more than two players in the top 15, then the countrywomen outside the top 15 no longer have a chance to participate. If a country has one player in the top 15, another player from outside the top 15 can join them.

Which stars will compete in women’s golf at the 2024 Olympics?

Nelly Korda, the current world number one and reigning Olympic champion, will be competing in Paris. Other stars include French hopeful Celine Boutier and Lydia Ko, who has already won silver and bronze in golf at the Olympics.

What will the women’s golf tournament look like at the 2024 Olympics?

Four rounds will be played in the usual strokeplay format. If there is a tie in any position among the top 3 at the end of the tournament, there will be a play-off. In 2021, for example, there was an epic seven-player play-off for bronze in the men’s event, which was won by C.T. Pan.

Final fun facts about the women’s Olympic golf tournament:

  1. Ines Laklalech from Morocco is the lowest-ranked player in the tournament in 321st place in the women’s world rankings.
  2. The USA and South Korea have the most female athletes with three golfers each.
  3. Although Northern Ireland is part of Great Britain, the Northern Irish athletes are taking part for Ireland.
  4. The highest-ranked player in the world rankings who has not qualified is Ally Ewing (ranked 16th) from the USA.
  5. The reigning US Open winner Yuka Saso (Japan) still competed for the Philippines at the last Games.

Golf Olympics 2024: All Information About the Men’s Tournament

When will the golf tournament at the 2024 Olympics take place?

The men’s golf competition at the 2024 Olympics will take place from Thursday, August 1 to Sunday, August 4.

Where will the golfers play the tournament at the 2024 Olympics?

The game is played on the Albatros course at Le Golf National. The course is the venue for the Open de France and hosted the 2018 Ryder Cup, which was won by Europe. The course is located around 40 km from the Olympic Village in the south-west of the French capital Paris.

How many participants will there be in the 2024 Olympic Games golf tournament?

A total of 60 golfers will be competing in the Olympic tournament in Paris. The complicated qualification system is designed to ensure a diverse field with athletes from a wide range of countries. To explain: all players from the top 15 of the Olympic Golf Ranking (OGR), which is based on the world rankings, qualify, with a limit of four golfers per nation. The rest of the field will be filled with the best athletes outside the top 15, with a limit of two men per nation. If a nation, such as the USA, already has more than two players in the top 15, then the countrymen outside the top 15 no longer have a chance to participate. If a country has one player in the top 15, one player from outside the top 15 can join them.

Which stars will compete in golf at the 2024 Olympics?

Scottie Scheffler, the current world number one and high-flyer of the season, is the favorite. His biggest rival is likely to be this season’s two-time Major winner, Xander Schauffele. Other stars include European hopefuls Rory McIlroy and Ludvig Aberg.

What is the tournament format for golf at the 2024 Olympics?

Four rounds are played in the usual strokeplay format. The player who needs the fewest strokes for the total of 72 holes wins the gold medal. If there is a tie for one of the top 3 positions at the end of the tournament, there will be a play-off. This takes place between all players in the same position and decides the medals.

Final fun facts about the men’s Olympic golf tournament:

  1. Fabrizio Zanotti from Paraguay, 343rd in the world rankings, is the lowest-ranked player in the tournament.
  2. Team USA will feature four top golfers, including Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele, who are both among the world’s leading players.
  3. Despite his victory at the 2024 US Open, Bryson DeChambeau was unable to secure a place on the Olympic team. LIV colleague and former Major winner Cam Smith will also miss the tournament.
  4. The highest-ranked player in the world rankings who has not qualified is Patrick Cantlay (ranked 8th) from the USA.
All Tee Times for Women’s Golf at the Olympics 2024
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Rory McIlroy on the 2024 Olympics: “It Would Be the Achievement of the Year”

Olympics 2024: Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry are competing for Ireland. (Image: Getty)
Olympics 2024: Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry are competing for Ireland. (Image: Getty)

Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry are competing for Ireland in this weeks Golf Tournament at the 2024 Olympics. Yesterday, both spoke to the media about the Olympics 2024, the experience around it and the value of the competition.

Golf at the Olympics 2024: All Tee Times

Golfers Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry before the start of Olympia 2024

Stuart Moffatt: Welcome to this morning’s press conference with Shane Lowry and Rory McIlroy of team Ireland. Shane, first of all, you had the honor of carrying the Ireland flag in the Opening Ceremony. How was that for you?

Shane Lowry: It was amazing. It was an amazing experience and something that I’ll remember forever.

Yeah, it was a big honour and when I got there and got to experience the whole thing, yeah, memories for a lifetime and just even being there and being around the other athletes, it was pretty cool. You know, to see the Olympics from there, it’s something that when I was growing up, you never — as a golfer, you didn’t really think was going to be achievable. So yeah, it was an amazing experience.

Stuart Moffatt: You got to look at the course this morning. How much are you looking forward to this weekend, challenging for a medal?

Rory McIlroy: Yeah, it’s a great go. Obviously some great memories for me from the 2018 Ryder Cup here. I’ve played a few French Opens as well. Yeah, it’s great to be back. We both had a really good time in Tokyo three years ago, and great to team up again.

Personally, I was close to getting a medal that time and obviously would love to try to go one or two or three better and get a medal. Yeah, I’m excited for the week.

Question: Obviously you were both in Tokyo, which is a very different games with all the restrictions and everything like that. Wondering if you guys are going to try to make more of the Olympic experience while you’re in Paris?

Shane Lowry: Yeah, we were just in there planning what we want to try and do this afternoon. Try and get tickets for something and go somewhere. I have my wife here this week, so yeah, we are hoping to maybe go watch a couple of Irishmen this afternoon maybe.

I suppose when it goats to Thursday, I’m not sure if the tee times, and with how hot it is, you don’t want to be trying to do too much if you’re trying to compete. Maybe today or tomorrow afternoon, might do something.

It’s certainly a different experience than it was in Tokyo. In Tokyo, remember we had that room in the hotel; we were only allowed to go to that room for dinner, and it was just the four or five of us all week. Yeah, certainly different and it’s probably going to be more enjoyable, as well.

Rory McIlroy: Yeah, for me, I just got in last night. So pretty focused on preparation the next couple of days. So we’ll see. I’ll probably — I don’t know if I will or not this week. But I’m going to hang around for a couple of days after the golf finishes for us and spend a couple days in Paris and then try to get to some of the other events which will be fun.

Question: Obviously you’re focused on this week but there’s been some chatter that in L.A., 2028, there might be a mixed event in the golf. Is that something you would welcome?

Rory McIlroy: Yeah, absolutely. I think different — that was the thing, when golf got back in the Olympics in 2016, I think some people were surprised that it was only individual stroke play, and they didn’t try to mix it up with some different formats.

So you know, if that came to fruition in L.A. where there was a mixed-team event, or even — and another team event that was not mixed and Shane and I could play in it if we qualify, yeah, I’d love that. I think that would be a great format to bring to this competition.

Question: Can you talk a little bit more about the opening ceremony? What was the after like on the boat during staging? Did you get to meet any other athletes or see anyone that was particularly noteworthy or interesting for you?

Shane Lowry: Obviously the weather played a big part in the whole thing and a new of us, we tried to stay a bit dry at the start of those but it was one of those, well, we’re wet now, might as well enjoy it. As the boat ride went down the crowds got bigger and bigger and honestly was just soaking it all in, enjoying the atmosphere, and like trying to spot the Irish people in the crowd. There’s a lot of Irish flags. Obviously when you get down past all the sites in Paris and then towards the Eiffel Tower, it’s kind of a bit of a surreal experience.

Other athletes outside of the Irish, I didn’t see of those or mix with any of those. But it was nice to kind of be in the Village for a day and hang out with some people.

I spent the whole day with Sarah Lavin. I got to know her pretty well that day and the story and what she’s been through is nothing short of incredible. She gained a huge new fan that day and I hope to see her go on and do great things next week. Yeah, just see what people do and what other athletes go through is a pretty cool thing.

Rory McIlroy: “That’s the nature of qualification for the Olympics”

Question: You have a situation where Bryson has had the year he’s had and three majors, not just one, but the great finishes and he’s not here. Is that right or does that undermine the ranking system of the Olympics a little bit?

Shane Lowry: No. 9 in the world is not here, either, for the Americans. The American Team is a hard team to make.

Rory McIlroy: Yeah, I think that’s the nature of qualification for the Olympics. I mean, you could have the fifth-best sprinter in the world but if he’s from a certain country, he’s not able to make it.

So I think it’s just the way that the qualification works in the Olympic Games, and that’s not just in golf. That’s in other disciplines, as well.

Question: Do you feel that the field here is strong enough for it to be the event it should be?

Rory McIlroy: I mean, yeah, you watch —

Shane Lowry: Like Rory said, you watch other sports, that’s the way it is. If you don’t run the time and don’t qualify, you’re not in. If you’re from a country — no, you watch the American nationals, it’s the biggest race of the year, the Jamaican nationals in the sprint. If they run a bad race, even though they might be one of the best in the world, they are not here competing.

I know we are not used to that in golf; that the biggest events have the best fields. But you know, there is a few players maybe that would make it better, but it’s still the Olympics and we’ve all qualified to play for our country and we’re all here to win a medal.

Question: Quickly on that for either one of you, and I don’t mean this strictly as a LIV-type question, but given the nature of the sport, is there another way to determine qualifying, or is the World Ranking the most practical way?

Rory McIlroy: I mean, I don’t think there’s any other way to do it because it’s hard to compare the golf that they play to the golf that we play. That’s the reason they didn’t get World Ranking points, right.

So if you want to qualify for the Olympics, you knew what you had to do. Just like if you wanted to qualify for the Ryder Cup, you knew what you had to do. They were very aware of the decision they made when they did.

Shane Lowry: “It would be better than silver”

Question: You’ve done a reasonable job of trying to answer the unanswerable in terms of a medal stands in relation to the rest of the sport, but can you give an idea of what your focus is, practise days going into this compared with the other four?

Rory McIlroy: I’d say my focus is pretty high. The last time you guys saw me, I didn’t give a very good account of myself at Troon. I want to make sure I’m right where I need to be teeing off on Thursday.

Again I’ve been asked this question a lot, where would an Olympic Medal sit in sort of the hierarchy of my career achievements and it’s something I probably won’t be able to answer until when everything is said and done.

I think 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. We have our four events a year that are the gold standard. But I think this is going to be — in time, going to be right up there amongst that.

Question: What would a Gold Medal do for your year?

Shane Lowry: It would be better than Silver (laughter).

Rory McIlroy: It would be the achievement, certainly of the year, if not — I think for me, it’s well documented that I haven’t won one of the Big Four in ten years. It would probably be one if, if not the biggest in my career for the last ten years.

Shane Lowry: Yeah, look, I felt I had a good chance to win The Open a couple weeks ago and I was really disappointed to not give it a better go on Saturday and Sunday.

Straightaway after that, I sort of felt like I have a chance to redeem myself here in a couple of weeks. For me, look, if you look at the media and what it was like back home yesterday when Mona (McSharry) won that Bronze Medal, I think if I was to win a Gold Medal and bring it back to Ireland, yeah, it would be pretty cool.

Question: Just for those watching at home be, probably have not seen golf at Le Golf National since 2018. How different will the golf course play?

Rory McIlroy: I don’t think it will play that much differently. It’s so pure. It’s in such great shape. But the rough is thick. It’s a pretty meaty setup.

Question: Is the rough as thick?

Rory McIlroy: It’s pretty well — maybe not as —

Shane Lowry: Probably not as long.

Rory McIlroy: Ask the Americans. I wasn’t in it much that week.

Shane Lowry: (Laughing).

Rory McIlroy: I think when I played a practice round.

It’s a good setup. I think it would be similar to like a PGA setup. You know, it’s pretty big, fast greens, but pretty thick rough around the greens. I think if you miss fairways, it’s a little hit and miss. I got some pretty bad lies out there, and I know there were some lies that were okay but definitely lose a lot of control of your ball.

The greens have got a little bit of bounce to them already, I would say. So I think it’s a good test.

Stuart Moffatt: We’ll bring things to a close there. Rory, Shane, thanks for your time and good luck this week.

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2024 Olympics: These Golfers Will Be the Flag Bearers in Paris

The Olympic flag bearers from the golf course. (Photo: Getty)
The Olympic flag bearers from the golf course. (Photo: Getty)

The flag bearers of the countries participating in the Olympic Games have a special honor. They represent their country at the opening ceremony and at the closing ceremony by carrying the respective flag. The flag bearers were either chosen by their respective National Olympic Committee or by the athletes themselves. For two countries, a golfer was chosen: Fabrizio Zanotti and Ines Laklalech. The 41-year-old has been a professional golfer for over 20 years and will carry the Paraguayan flag alongside rower Alejandra Alonso. Ines Laklalech will be the flag bearer for Morocco together with rider Yessin Rahmouni. Laklalech plays on the Ladies European Tour and won the Ladies Open de France in 2022.

Key Role for Fabrizio Zanotti at the 2024 Olympics

The selected athletes will have the honour of presenting their country’s flag twice in front of the whole world. Firstly at the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games on 26 July 2024 and a second time at the closing ceremony on 11 August 2024. For the first time, there will not be the usual march of the nations into a stadium. The opening ceremony will take place in the centre of Paris and on the Seine with a finale at the Eiffel Tower.

Fabrizio Zanotti is the only golfer from Paraguay to take part in the 2024 Olympic Games. With his participation in 2016 and 2021, he already brings double the experience to the competition. He has also competed in several national and continental championships, has major experience and has won several times on the DP World Tour. He celebrated one of his two victories on the tour in Munich at the BMW International Open.

Ines Laklalech became pro in 2021 after earning her tour card for the LET via the LET Q-School. In her rookie season, she achieved four top 10 finishes before winning in France. This made her the first golfer not only from Morocco but from North America to win on the LET.

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US Golfers Eyeing Olympics 2024: End of Qualification Period

In August, it gets serious for the American golfers at the 2024 Olympics. Who can hope for success of making the team? (Photos: Getty)

As the qualification period for the 2024 Olympics concludes, four US men’s golfers have secured their spots in Paris. Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele, Wyndham Clark, and Collin Morikawa will represent the United States at the Games.

Scheffler and Schauffele Lead the Team At The Olympics 2024

Scottie Scheffler, ranked first in the Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR), has had a stellar season, including wins at The Players Championship, The Masters, and The Memorial Tournament. Despite a challenging performance at the US Open, Scheffler’s consistent excellence throughout the year ensured his top spot.

Xander Schauffele, currently third in the OWGR, has also had a strong season. He won his first major at the PGA Championship and has consistently finished in the top ten. Schauffele’s experience and previous gold medal win at the 2021 Olympics make him a formidable contender for Paris 2024.

Clark and Morikawa Secure Final Spots

Wyndham Clark, ranked fifth in the OWGR, clinched his spot with strong performances earlier in the season, including a win at the Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Despite recent inconsistencies, Clark’s high ranking secured his place on the team.

Collin Morikawa, ranked seventh, rounds out the US team. Morikawa’s accuracy and recent top finishes, including a third place at the Masters, have bolstered his ranking. His consistent play and strategic approach make him a valuable asset for the US team.

DeChambeau Misses Out Due to LIV Golf Participation

Bryson DeChambeau, despite a recent US Open 2024 win, did not qualify for the Olympics due to his participation in LIV Golf events, which do not contribute to OWGR points. This exclusion has left him frustrated, but the rules of Olympic qualification are clear, prioritizing OWGR standings.

Conclusion of the Qualification Process

The Olympic Golf Ranking (OGR) determines qualification, aligning closely with the OWGR. The top 15 golfers in the OGR automatically qualify, with a maximum of four per country. The men’s qualification period ended on June 17, 2024, confirming the final roster.

The qualification criteria for the Olympic Golf Tournament. (Photo: IGF)
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British Golfers Set for Olympics 2024 as Qualification Period Ends

In August, it gets serious for the English golfers at the 2024 Olympics. Who can hope for success of making the team? (Photos: Getty)

The Olympic qualification period for the men golfers has ended, with Tommy Fleetwood and Matt Fitzpatrick leading the charge for the Paris Olympics.

Fleetwood’s Performance Leading Up to The Olympics 2024

Tommy Fleetwood, ranked 10th in the Olympic Golf Ranking (OGR) and 13th in the World Golf Ranking (OWGR), has demonstrated consistent performance over the past few years. His significant achievements include winning the Nedbank Golf Challenge in 2022 and playing a pivotal role in Team Europe’s Ryder Cup victory in 2023. Fleetwood also secured a top-five finish at the 2024 Masters Tournament, solidifying his position as a key contender for the upcoming Olympics.

Fitzpatrick’s Steady Rise

Matt Fitzpatrick, ranked 11th in the OGR and 18th in the OWGR, has also shown remarkable consistency. The 2022 U.S. Open champion has maintained his presence within the top 50 golfers globally for the past seven years. Notable victories for Fitzpatrick include the 2023 RBC Heritage and the 2022 U.S. Open.

Qualification Process and Criteria

The Olympic Golf Ranking (OGR) determines qualification for the 2024 Paris Olympics, scheduled from August 1-10 at Le Golf National in Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines. The top 15 golfers in the OGR automatically qualify, with a maximum of four players per National Olympic Committee (NOC). Beyond the top 15, the highest-ranked players are selected until the 60-player field is complete, ensuring no more than two players per NOC unless they are within the top 15.

The qualification criteria for the Olympic Golf Tournament. (Photo: IGF)

Women’s Qualification Period Nearing End

The qualification period for women golfers will conclude on June 24, 2024, a week after the men’s. Charley Hull and Georgia Hall are the top British hopefuls. Hull, ranked 9th in both the OGR and OWGR, recently won the Volunteers of America Classic, ending a six-year wait for an LPGA Tour title. Hall, ranked 23rd in the OGR and 36st in the OWGR, has also shown impressive form, including a win at the Aramco Team Series in London. Their performances will determine their positions in the final Olympic lists.

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Travel

The 2024 Olympic Flame Is Lit

Lighting Ceremony in ancient Olympia and arrival of the Olympic flame at Costa Navarino. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
Lighting Ceremony in ancient Olympia and arrival of the Olympic flame at Costa Navarino. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)

Olympia casts a spell over me

I am eagerly awaiting this summer’s Olympic Games in Paris, having managed to buy tickets for several events. I am all the more delighted when I receive an invitation to go on a press trip to Greece, which includes getting to know the golfing destination of Costa Navarino and taking part in the official ceremony to light the Olympic flame.

Gripping moments

The atmosphere in the ancient stadium of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, captivates me from the very first moment. The entry of the Greek presidential guard, the raising of the flags, and the impressive voice of the world-famous American mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato, who performs the Olympic anthem, move me deeply.

March-in by the Greek’s Presidential Guard. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)

After the official speeches, the Olympic flame is lit in the ruins of the approximately 2,600-year-old Temple of Hera. From there, the flame is transferred by an actress, who takes on the role of the high priestess Hestia, to the torch of the first of more than 550 torchbearers. In doing so, she also hands over the traditional olive branch. Dancers in traditional antique dress accompany this atmospheric process with a performance whose choreography completely thrills me.

Handing over of the Olympic Flame by the High Priestess. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)

Over the next 11 days, the torch is carried from Olympia through Greece to the ancient Panathinaiko Stadium in Athens, where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896. From there, it will continue its journey by boat to Marseille in France.

Arrival at Navarino Bay

The following morning, the symbolic flame arrives at the world’s first International Olympic Academy Golf Course at Navarino Hills. This is very close to the town of Pylos, which is a two-hour drive south of Olympia.

It is the first golf course in the Mediterranean to feature the Olympic symbol, and the 18-hole signature golf course symbolizes the link between golf and Olympia. Its name reflects the shared values of the International Olympic Academy, the Greek Olympic Committee, and Costa Navarino – namely sustainability, personal well-being, education, and growth.

Participation in the ceremony on the 11th green in front of the clubhouse is extremely atmospheric and is carried out with the participation of young athletes from the golf academy, with two of them acting as torchbearers.

The Olympic Flame reaches the International Olympic Academy Golf Course. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)

Development from golf hotel to Destination Costa Navarino

I first traveled to the five-star hotel The Westin Resort in 2012. At that time, The Dunes Course, designed by Bernhard Langer in 2010, and The Bay Course, developed by Robert Trent Jones II and opened the following year, were only known to a few golfers in Germany. I was immediately fascinated by this beautiful spot, the hotel, and the two golf courses during this trip, and I’ve always been delighted by this destination. The last time I visited prior to this year was in November 2021, and my impressions from that time are attached.

This is the fifth time I’ve been here. The entrance area of The Westin and its lobby are now very familiar to me, so much so that I almost feel at home.

Entrance and lobby of The Westin Resort Costa Navarino. (Photos: Juergen Linnenbuerger)

Once again, I relish my stay in a spacious room with sea views and the sweet treats to welcome me.

Sweet delicacies from local beekeeping in the Deluxe Sea View Room . (Photos: Juergen Linnenbuerger)

The day couldn’t start better than with a hearty breakfast on the terrace of Moriās Restaurant. The freshly squeezed orange juice and savory omelette contribute to a perfect start to the golf day.

EThe perfect start to a great golfing day. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)

From the initial two hotels, The Westin and The Romanos, and the two golf courses with The Dunes Clubhouse, Costa Navarino has now developed into a destination with a wide range of sports, wellness, and leisure activities.

With a five-day sports camp for children and teenagers aged between five and 15, the destination aims to bring them closer to the Olympic idea in ten different sports in July and August 2024. Professional coaches, such as those from the FC Bayern Munich Football Academy, will be on hand. In addition, the NBA Basketball School will be returning to Costa Navarino from May to September to share the special NBA experience with young and adult participants.

The three areas of Navarino Dunes, Navarino Bay, and Navarino Hills currently have four signature 18-hole golf courses. Their three exceptional clubhouses not only impress me with their architectural creativity and diversity, but also with their first-class catering offer.

An impressive golf quartet

The four courses are a maximum distance of 13 km apart and no more than 20 minutes by car. Hotel shuttles offer perfectly organized, free transfers to the various courses.

The state of maintenance of the tee boxes, greens, and bunkers on all courses is beyond criticism. Only the fairways of The Dunes Course showed potential for improvement in some places during my visit. However, according to the management, this is being addressed as soon as possible.

The latest jewel: Navarino Hills

A new experience for me this year is the visit to The Hills Clubhouse and a round on The Hills Course. I am delighted with both. The clubhouse sits enthroned on a hill with fascinating 360-degree views from the inviting terrace.

The Hills Clubhouse: straightforward design and fantastic views from the terrace. (Photos: Juergen Linnenbuerger)

From here, you can see over the course, the bay, the huge practice facilities, and the impressive mountain backdrop in the distance on the opposite side. It serves as the clubhouse for both The Hills Course and the International Olympic Academy Golf Course.

I like its clear lines, its open design, and the use of stone materials from the region. The transparent, discreetly integrated glass lift fits in with the concept of simple elegance. The 2,500 m² clubhouse was built with the aim of achieving energy efficiency class A+. It has photovoltaic panels.

Our group enjoys a meal at Piqantro, which is a restaurant, café, and bar all in one. It offers contemporary Iberian/Western Mediterranean cuisine, drawing on traditional recipes but also incorporating modern influences. There is a wide selection of dishes on offer. I enjoy the pasta with cherry tomatoes and prawns.

Leading by example

I am particularly interested in a screen that I discover both here and in the pro shop at The Bay Clubhouse. Among other things, I can use it to determine my course handicap by entering my personal HCP. The annoying search for this value in hard-to-read tables, which is often necessary on other courses, has come to an end here.

The system also offers a lot more information, such as the current speed on the greens, the pin positions, the grass used, the weather forecast, and the hotel shuttle schedule. What a step forward.

Equipment and service at its best

The buggies equipped with state-of-the-art GPS impressed me just as much as the quality of the rental clubs. Ball pyramids are available free of charge on the generously designed driving ranges. Not only here, but in all areas of the destination, I encounter attentive, friendly, and competent service staff who enjoy their work.

The golf cloverleaf in a cutshell

Navarino Dunes: The Dunes Course

Designed by German golf legend Bernhard Langer in collaboration with European Golf Design, it was the first signature golf course in Greece. Opened in 2010, this 6,018-meter championship course from the back tees leads through a varied natural landscape, past the two hotels The Romanos and The Westin. With spectacular views of the Ionian Sea, it features links-style elements along the waterfront fairways. The fairways, which run through the hinterland past olive groves and orchards, are more reminiscent of a parkland course.

Since my last visit in 2021, exclusive villas have been built along the first nine holes, although they are a long way from the fairways and do not come into play. Construction work continues on individual holes.

Early morning on the #18 . (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)

Navarino Bay: The Bay Course

Most of the tees on the par-71 The Bay Course offer a marvelous view of the sea. Some holes run directly along the historic Bay of Navarino. The course measures 5,536 meters from the back tees. The holes lead through extremely hilly terrain with considerable differences in altitude in places. Not only are its five par-three holes fun, but they are also challenging at the same time.

The Bay Course offeringImpressive views across the course to Navarino Bay. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)

Navarino Hills: The International Olympic Academy Golf Course and The Hills Course

The two newest 18-hole golf courses, designed by two-time Masters champion and Ryder Cup legend José Marίa Olazábal, are located above the coastline. Officially opened in 2022, they offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, the Bay of Navarino, and the Ionian Sea.

Stop playing and simply enjoy the views. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)

The International Olympic Academy Golf Course has a length of 6,366 meters. Details can be found in my report mentioned above.

The Hills Course is a par 72 with a length of 6,280 meters. It is also situated in complete tranquility, surrounded by mature trees and leads through rural Messinia with beautiful views of the rugged mountains and small villages. Its fairways are generously designed and offer sufficient landing area for placing drives. The bunkers are numerous but not very deep. I enjoy the round on this new course, which makes for relaxed golfing.

Each of the courses has its own character, which for me makes the quartet a four-leaf clover that gives me feelings of happiness. To single out one as the best course would not do justice to the others.

A pictSurrounded by unspoiled nature. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)

Destination Costa Navarino is world champion

With such variety and high quality, it comes as no surprise to me that Destination Costa Navarino was recognized as the ‘World’s Best Golf Venue 2023’ at the tenth World Golf Awards.

David Achington, previously director at Monte Rei Golf & Country Club in Portugal and Camiral Golf & Wellness Resort near Girona in Spain, took over as director of golf at Costa Navarino last year. He and his team were delighted to take the coveted award with them to the Peloponnese.

Quality has its price

The green fee is standard on all courses. In the most favorable of four periods, it is €193 for hotel guests and €233 per 18 holes in the high season.

Always a great pleasure

Visiting Destination Costa Navarino is always a special experience for me. The constantly expanding, exclusive offers and the top quality found in all areas are unrivaled.

Mandarin Oriental Hotel’s beach club. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)

I am already looking forward to my next trip so that I can get to know the new W-Costa Navarino and Mandarin Oriental hotels. Ta léme sýntoma.

Juergen Linnenbuerger,

Cologne, May 2024

Navarino Hills: The new star in Greece’s golfing sky
Categories
Professionals

Road to the Olympic Games 2024: British Golfers Eye Qualification

In August, it gets serious for the English golfers at the 2024 Olympics. Who can hope for success of making the team? (Photos: Getty)

The qualification process for the 2024 Olympics is in full swing, and British golfers Tommy Fleetwood, Matt Fitzpatrick, Charley Hull, and Georgia Hall are among the top contenders aiming for a place in Paris.

Men’s Olympics Qualification

Tommy Fleetwood and Matt Fitzpatrick are leading the British men’s golf contingent. Fleetwood, currently ranked 9th in the Olympic Golf Rankings (OGR) and 11th in the World Golf Rankings (OWGR), has had a successful few years. He won the Nedbank Golf Challenge in 2022, played a key role in Team Europe’s Ryder Cup victory in 2023, and recently secured a top-five finish at the 2024 Masters Tournament.

Matt Fitzpatrick, ranked 10th in the OGR and 14th in the OWGR, is also a strong contender. Fitzpatrick, the 2022 U.S. Open champion, has consistently remained within the top 50 golfers worldwide over the past seven years. His notable victories include the 2023 RBC Heritage and the 2022 U.S. Open, showcasing his readiness for Olympic competition.

Women’s Olympic Qualification

On the women’s side, Charley Hull and Georgia Hall are the top British hopefuls. Hull, ranked 7th in both the OGR and OWGR, recently ended a six-year wait for an LPGA Tour title by winning the Volunteers of America Classic in Texas. Her consistent performance, including five top-10 finishes this year, makes her a strong candidate for Olympic success.

Georgia Hall, ranked 23rd in the OGR and 31st in the OWGR, has also shown impressive form. The former Open champion looks forward to competing in the 2024 Paris Olympics. Hall’s recent appearances include a win at the Aramco Team Series in London.

Olympic Qualification Process

The Olympic Golf Ranking (OGR) determines the qualification for the 2024 Paris Olympics, which will take place from August 1 -10 on Le Golf National in Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines. The top 15 golfers in the OGR automatically qualify, with a maximum of four players per National Olympic Committee (NOC). Beyond the top 15, the highest-ranked players are selected until the 60-player field is filled, ensuring no more than two players per NOC unless they are within the top 15.

The men’s qualification period ends on June 17, 2024, while the women’s ends on June 24, 2024. The final lists will be published shortly after these dates, confirming the golfers who will compete in Paris.

The qualification criterie for the Olympic Golf Tournament. (Photo: IGF)

With their strong performances and current rankings, Fleetwood, Fitzpatrick, Hull, and Hall are well-positioned to represent Great Britain at the 2024 Paris Olympics.