Tommy Fleetwood and Scottie Scheffler have spoken about the future of golf at the Olympics after the thrilling event at Le Golf National in Paris.
The world number one secured a one-shot victory after a stunning final round at the 2018 Ryder Cup venue. Despite his superb 2024, Scheffler was emotional on the podium as he was awarded his first Olympic medal.
It was yet more heartache for Fleetwood as the Englishman had to settle for silver. A bogey on the 17th ultimately cost the 33-year-old any chance of victory.
Tommy Fleetwood and Scottie Scheffler look ahead to Los Angeles 2028
Before the 2024 event, Fleetwood admitted he would welcome a change to the Olympic golf format at the Los Angeles games in four years.
However, the Team GB star now appears content with the traditional 72-hole competition.
“I do [think the format should remain]. I feel like all the majors are and it deserves absolutely the same format as what the biggest prizes in the game are because it is one of the biggest prizes in the game,” said Fleetwood.
He added: “I think, yeah, I think it’s the best way to determine the best golfer of the week probably is that 72-hole format. Yeah, I would love there to be another event alongside that they have spoken about. I would love another chance at a medal, selfishly.”
Scheffler also agreed with Fleetwood. “I agree with Tommy. I think if you are going to have an individual tournament, 72-hole stroke play is the best way to crown a champion and the best player for that week,” said the American.
The world number one, however, claimed he wouldn’t be opposed to a team competition.
“As far as a team competition goes, I think that would be a fun aspect,” he added. “You know, it can be tough for us at times with it being in the middle of our season on tour. So it can be tough to really find the time. But if that’s something that we can find the time for, then I think that would be really special.”
2024 Olympics delivers in stunning fashion
Before the 2024 Olympic event, excitement levels weren’t exceptionally high. A thrilling major championship season had just concluded, and some high-profile names were absent from the French capital.
Yet, the stacked leaderboard that emerged on Sunday proved to be superb viewing for the 30,000 fans at Le Golf National and those watching around the world.
It was abundantly clear that the world’s best players were desperate to land an Olympic podium spot, something only a handful of sportsmen and women can claim to have done.
Clearly, representing a country adds another dynamic that cannot be replicated. After the success in Paris, more attention should be directed at the Olympics ahead of the Los Angeles games.
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