YouTube golf star Rick Shiels has highlighted a change he wants made to the Olympic golf event after watching this week’s thrilling competition at Le Golf National.
Scottie Scheffler was the man to claim gold after the world number one carded a simply stunning final round to snatch victory from Team GB’s Tommy Fleetwood. The American was visibly emotional when receiving his medal, and Scheffler explained after the ceremony why he was tearful.
As for Fleetwood, the 33-year-old once again fell short in one of the most significant events. Despite his late heartache, the Englishman was inundated with positive messages from the likes of Shiels and Peter Finch.
Shiels has since examined the Olympic event more deeply and highlighted one change he’d like to see in 2028.
Rick Shiels wants caddie change for 2028 Los Angeles Olympics
Speaking during the latest Rick Shiels Golf Show Podcast, the YouTube personality claimed he was surprised to see caddies and players from differing nations working together.
Shiels highlighted Jon Rahm as an example. “The one I kept thinking of was Jon Rahm because Jon Rahm’s caddie is American,” said Shiels.
He added: “As I was watching, I thought, ‘I don’t know if that’s right.’ Maybe you should have a caddie from the same country, and they should be rewarded with a medal.”
2028 Olympic event must be fine-tuned after Paris success
After the event in Paris, organisers and those who make the big decisions at the top of the game must give the Olympic golf event attention.
The finish at Le Golf National was among the most thrilling of the 2024 season and captivated those at the 2018 Ryder Cup venue and others watching around the world.
Looking ahead, talk of a mixed event taking place at Riviera Country Club has gathered pace, as has the prospect of a match-play style format being introduced.
Shiels’ suggestion regarding caddies is also an alteration which could be considered. Golf has benefited from players representing their countries, and looking to add caddies into the mix could prove another astute change to the already captivating Olympic format.
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