The final round of the men’s golf competition at the 2024 Olympics is shaping up to be an electrifying battle at Le Golf National. With Olympic gold and national pride on the line, the tournament has set the stage for a dramatic conclusion come 3 August.
Xander Schauffele of the United States and Jon Rahm of Spain find themselves tied at the top of the leaderboard, both sitting at an impressive 14-under. Schauffele, who recently emerged victorious at The Open Championship two weeks ago, shot a commendable 3-under 68 in the third round. His highlight came with an eagle at the par-5 14th, demonstrating his knack for turning key moments into game-changers. He is determined to secure back-to-back Olympic gold medals, a testament to his consistency and prowess on the international stage.
Jon Rahm, sharing the spotlight with Schauffele, has shown remarkable form with consecutive rounds of 66. Rahm’s seventh birdie at the 17th hole underscored his relentless pursuit for superiority and his ability to perform under pressure, making the final round a must-watch.
Lurking just one stroke behind the leaders is Tommy Fleetwood from Great Britain, currently in third place with a score of 13-under. Despite the mixed bag of three birdies and two bogeys, Fleetwood is buoyed by an enthusiastic crowd that has demonstrated unwavering support reminiscent of his memorable performance at the 2018 Ryder Cup held at the same venue. “It’s definitely a different crowd to what we are used to. It’s an Olympic crowd and the atmosphere has been amazing. I always consider myself very lucky with the support and connections with people that I make but this has been great. To be playing the Olympics, to be in contention and to have this support; they are things you dream of. If you don’t enjoy this then what’s the point?” Fleetwood commented, reflecting on the unique experience of competing at the Olympics.
Fleetwood also expressed sympathy for teammate Matt Fitzpatrick, who had to withdraw due to an injured thumb after a tough round of 81. “I feel for Fitz. The Olympics is something that’s very special. Pulling out for injury is part and parcel for the sport but it’s a horrible time for it to happen,” he said.
Among other notable performances, Denmark’s Nicolai Højgaard delivered the round of the week, matching the course record with a bogey-free 62 that featured an eagle and seven birdies, placing him tied for fourth. Alongside him at the same score, Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama will be looking to improve on his level-par 71 in the final push for a medal.
American Scottie Scheffler, with six birdies and two bogeys, remains in contention, while Ireland’s Rory McIlroy displayed impressive consistency with a flawless five-birdie round of 66. Additional challengers include Thomas Detry and Tom Kim, both at 10-under, and another group led by Ludvig Åberg, Jason Day, and Joaquin Niemann, who are one shot further back and will need strong performances on Sunday to reach the podium.
As the Olympic event heads into its climax, the tight competition and high stakes promise an unforgettable finish. With a host of talented golfers vying for glory, the culmination of weeks of hard work and strategic play will be on full display. Whether Schauffele can defend his title, Rahm will claim his first Olympic gold, or Fleetwood will ride the wave of support to a monumental win, one thing remains certain – the final round will be a gripping spectacle of world-class golf.
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