Olympic Golf

Olympic Golf is a relatively recent addition to the modern Olympic Games, reintroduced in 2016 after a 112-year absence. Despite its long history as a global sport, golf had only been contested twice before in the Olympics—at the 1900 Paris Games and the 1904 St. Louis Games—before returning to the schedule in Rio de Janeiro. Since then, it has become a prestigious opportunity for the world’s best golfers to compete not just for personal glory, but for national pride.

The Olympic golf competition features two separate 72-hole stroke play tournaments—one for men and one for women—played over four consecutive days. Each tournament follows the standard format used in most professional golf events, with the lowest aggregate score after four rounds determining the winner. Unlike many professional golf tournaments, there is no cut after the second round, meaning all 60 participants in each field play the full event.

Unlike team sports at the Olympics, golf is primarily an individual competition. However, the international aspect adds a unique dimension. Golfers qualify for the Olympics based on the Official World Golf Ranking, with a maximum of four players per country if all are ranked within the top 15, and up to two if not. This rule ensures broad global representation while still allowing the top talent to compete.

Olympic Golf is hosted at world-class courses selected by the host country. The conditions and layout of the course often play a significant role in the tournament’s outcome, with weather and course design testing the players' adaptability and strategic thinking. While the format mirrors traditional stroke play, the Olympic setting introduces a different kind of pressure and motivation.

For many golfers, winning an Olympic medal is a unique honor that complements major championship victories. The sense of representing one’s country on such a global stage adds emotional weight, and the medal ceremony offers a rare and symbolic reward in a sport usually focused on trophies and prize money.

Overall, Olympic Golf has helped broaden the appeal of the sport and given fans around the world a chance to see top players in a different competitive context. With rising interest and memorable moments from recent Games, it has established itself as an exciting and valued part of the Olympic tradition.