“Jon Rahm provides evidence to support his allegation that team USA not only fixed the sprint competitions but also manipulated Golf in the Olympics, declaring it rigged.”
Whilst conversing outside, Nico (Hojgaard) expressed his belief that the tournament he participated in was superior to others; even surpassing his experience with Ryder Cup play.
In my opinion, the Ryder Cup remains unmatched as the top tournament in our sport due to its raw competitiveness. However, I am confident that this event has the capability of standing shoulder-to-shoulder with it.
Considering the chaotic state of golf at present, I believe that there are two tournaments which embody the truest essence of competitive spirit in our sport. Surprisingly, however we do not play for financial gain during these events.
As we stood at the 16th tee, witnessing Victor Perez’s arrival on the 18th hole and being showered with adoration by French spectators, it dawned on us that such fervent support is a rarity outside of The Ryder Cup.
“Yeah, I found the atmosphere and environment to be amazing for playing, and it seemed like everyone on the field enjoyed themselves.”
The Ulsterman acknowledged his altered perception of the Olympics in 2021, even though there were no spectators present during his third round. “My mindset prior to heading into Tokyo was different from what it is now; similar shifts have occurred throughout my career because I can be unobservant and inexperienced,” he shared. He continued by saying that experiencing such moments makes one realize their significance for themselves and others alike.
McIlroy began the last day of the competition four strokes behind the leader. However, he was in great form on holes ten to eighteen with an impressive run of five birdies in a row. Nevertheless, his luck changed at hole number 15 when he took two extra shots due to his wedge shot from a distance of 140 yards landing into waterbodies resulting in a double bogey score. Prior to this incident, McIlroy had managed not to lose any points for thirty-three consecutive holes played beforehand.
“I was trailing by one and I exclaimed: ‘Oh my goodness, what just occurred?'” he recounted. “Despite executing the wedge shot on 15 as planned, insufficient loft prevented it from traveling an additional three or four yards due to strong winds.”
I aimed to be assertive and hit a wedge between the front edge and hole. Unfortunately, I missed my target by about three or four yards, which ultimately cost me a medal. Despite this setback, obtaining the gold medal was still my primary goal at that time. When I approached hole number 15 with a wedge in hand, achieving birdie would bring me up to an impressive score of 18-under par while tied for first place- meaning any type of medal could potentially be mine at that point.
