By American golfer Scottie Scheffler clinched the gold medal in the men’s golf competition at the Paris 2024 Olympics with an impressive final score of 19 under par at Le Golf National. Britain’s Tommy Fleetwood secured the silver medal, finishing just one stroke behind Scheffler. Hideki Matsuyama from Japan earned the bronze medal.
Fleetwood, from Southport, shot a final-day 66, narrowly missing Scheffler’s course-record-tying nine-under 62, which included six birdies in the back-nine. Despite being tied with Scheffler with two holes remaining, Fleetwood’s bogey on the 17th hole cost him the lead.
Fleetwood expressed mixed emotions about his performance, feeling both disappointment and pride. He stated, “It’s unbelievably special. I never dreamt I would be an Olympic medallist.” He also highlighted the joy of being back in competition and the pride of standing on the podium.
Scheffler’s victory adds to his numerous titles on the PGA Tour this year, including his second Masters title in April. Matsuyama finished one shot behind Fleetwood, while France’s Victor Perez placed fourth.
Ireland’s Rory McIlroy tied for fifth place with Jon Rahm. McIlroy made a strong comeback with five consecutive birdies on the back nine but faltered with a double bogey after finding water on the 15th hole. Rahm, who led by four shots after the 10th green, saw his chances slip away with a disappointing back nine of 39, leaving him to reflect on the weight of his missed opportunity for Spain.
Fleetwood reflected on his experience, stating, “Standing on that podium with a medal was one of the most amazing moments I’ve had as a golfer. I’ll remember those times for the rest of my life.”
