It’s the Olympic Sunday that money can’t buy. Those behind the return of golf to the Games, despite myriad doubts from within and outside the sport, must be overjoyed.
At the forefront of the competition are major champions Jon Rahm and Xander Schauffele, leading the way with just 18 holes remaining. Close behind is Tommy Fleetwood, a local favorite, one stroke off their 14 under par total. Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler are just four strokes from the lead. Denmark’s Nicolai Højgaard showcased a remarkable third round with a course record of 62. The battle for medals promises to be top-tier, with all Olympic-related skepticism now put to rest.
Fleetwood’s outstanding performance during the 2018 Ryder Cup continues to resonate. “Hideki [Matsuyama] and Wyndham [Clark] asked over the first two days, ‘Is this your home country?’” he remarked.
“The atmosphere is definitely different from what we’re accustomed to. It’s an Olympic crowd, and the energy has been incredible. I always feel fortunate for the support and connections I make, but this experience is exceptional. Competing in the Olympics and being in contention with this kind of support; those are dreams come true. If you don’t find joy in this, then what’s the point?” Indeed, Tommy.
McIlroy’s tournament truly ignited with a 66. Achieving a podium finish would complete a full circle for the 35-year-old, considering his earlier hesitations about golf’s inclusion in the Games. “It’s a bit more enjoyable than a major,” he shared. “It feels like a celebration in some ways. It definitely has the vibe of a big-time event. Perhaps the crowd is just a bit more enthusiastic.”
After not claiming an individual victory since the 2023 Masters, Rahm returned to form with a win at LIV Golf’s UK stop last weekend. He is known for his streaky successes. “I’ve played well all year but haven’t always had the best opportunities,” the Spaniard commented. “It’s been very rewarding to have the chance to play as well as I have in the last month, the win last week, and to now be in contention this week.”
Jason Day and Ludvig Åberg remain in the hunt at nine under par. Tom Kim, aiming to earn an exemption from South Korea’s military service by winning a medal, joins McIlroy and Scheffler at ten under. Kim has skillfully avoided questions about conscription all week, though that may change if he finishes in the top three. One can’t help but wonder if the other competitors might conspire to let him secure a bronze.
As Fleetwood strategizes for a potentially popular win, his compatriot Matt Fitzpatrick has withdrawn after round three, scuffling to an 81 and grappling with a persistent thumb injury that had hindered him leading up to the Games.
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“I feel for Fitz,” Fleetwood expressed. “The Olympics is truly special. Unfortunately, injuries are part of the sport, but it’s a terrible time for it to happen.”
