The Olympic Golf Tournament, and realizing we are better at watching

The History of Golf in the Olympic Games

As the 2024 Olympic Golf Tournament tees off today, it’s a perfect opportunity to delve into the rich and intriguing history of golf at the Olympics. The story of golf’s journey in the Olympics is one of early inclusion, a long hiatus, and a triumphant return, reflecting the sport's evolving place on the global stage.

Early Beginnings: Golf’s Olympic Debut

Golf first appeared in the Olympic Games at the 1900 Paris Olympics, making it one of the earliest sports to be included in the modern Olympic movement. The 1900 event featured a men’s individual competition and a women’s competition, marking the first and only time women’s golf was included in the Olympics until its return over a century later.

The men’s competition was won by Charles Sands of the United States, while the women’s title went to Margaret Abbott, also from the USA. Interestingly, Abbott didn’t realize she was participating in the Olympics; she believed she was simply playing in a golf tournament in Paris. This anecdote adds a charming layer to golf’s early Olympic history.

Golf made its second Olympic appearance at the 1904 St. Louis Games, but this time the format included only men’s events, with an individual and a team competition. The United States dominated, with George Lyon of Canada being the only non-American to win a gold medal during these games, triumphing in the individual event. Despite its initial inclusion, golf was dropped from the Olympic program after the 1904 Games due to various factors, including the limited international field and the complexity of organizing the sport at that time.

The Long Hiatus: 112 Years of Absence

After 1904, golf disappeared from the Olympic lineup for an astonishing 112 years. During this time, the sport grew enormously in popularity worldwide, but it remained absent from the Olympic arena. The reasons for golf’s exclusion varied, from logistical challenges to the belief that professional golfers would not participate due to the sport's lucrative nature outside of the Olympics.

The Triumphant Return: Golf at the 2016 Rio Olympics

The long wait ended at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics, where golf made a much-anticipated return. This inclusion was part of the International Olympic Committee’s efforts to modernize the Games and include sports with global appeal.

The men’s competition in 2016 saw Great Britain’s Justin Rose claim the gold medal, while Sweden’s Henrik Stenson took silver and the USA’s Matt Kuchar earned bronze. In the women’s competition, South Korea’s Inbee Park secured the gold, with New Zealand’s Lydia Ko taking silver and China’s Shanshan Feng claiming bronze. The Rio Games proved that golf could thrive in the Olympic setting, offering a global platform for the sport and its players.

Building on Success: The 2020 Tokyo Olympics

At the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, held in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, golf continued to cement its place in the Olympic program. Xander Schauffele of the USA won the men’s gold medal, while Japan’s own Hideki Matsuyama, the reigning Masters champion, brought even more attention to the sport with his presence. On the women’s side, Nelly Korda of the USA took gold, continuing the trend of high-profile winners and intense competition.

The 2024 Paris Olympics: Golf Today

As we turn our attention to the 2024 Paris Olympics, the excitement is palpable. Golf’s return to its origins in Paris feels like a full-circle moment for the sport. This year’s tournament promises to showcase some of the best golfers in the world, competing not just for medals but also for the pride of representing their countries on one of the biggest stages in sports.

The Big Fred Golf Connection

At Big Fred Golf, we’re inspired by the blend of tradition and fun that golf brings to the Olympics. While not all of us can compete for an Olympic medal, that doesn’t mean we can’t look good on the course. Check out our "Play Bad. Look Good." collection HERE, and gear up with apparel and accessories that make every round memorable, no matter your score.

Conclusion

The history of golf in the Olympics is a testament to the sport’s enduring appeal and its ability to unite players and fans from around the world. From its early days in Paris to its modern revival, golf has carved out a unique place in the Olympic movement. As we watch the 2024 tournament unfold, let’s celebrate the joy of the game and the incredible journey it has taken to get here. Whether you’re an avid golfer or a casual fan, the Olympic golf tournament is a reminder of why we love this sport: for the challenge, the competition, and most importantly, the fun. And with Big Fred Golf, you can enjoy all that while looking your best on the course.