Jon Rahm shares question he wants to see Xander Schauffele answer

Jon Rahm has expressed a particular interest in a question he hopes journalists will pose to Xander Schauffele during his upcoming press conference ahead of the Olympic Games. As the American golfer gears up to defend his gold medal in the event, Rahm’s curiosity centers on the relative significance of Olympic success compared to major championship victories in the sport of golf.

Golf has made a return to the Olympic stage for only the third time in over a century at this week’s Games, with Le Golf National just outside Paris serving as the venue. This rare convergence of the world’s elite golfers, many from the PGA Tour and others from LIV Golf, provides a unique setting for evaluating the importance of Olympic medals in the sport’s hierarchy.

Jon Rahm, one of the favorites for the tournament and a major champion who competed at the 2018 Ryder Cup held at this very course, was recently asked about whether winning an Olympic gold would hold more significance for him than a major victory. Rahm acknowledged the complexity of this question, emphasizing that his perspective might not yet be fully formed.

In his press conference, Rahm noted that he has often been asked about the comparative value of Olympic gold versus major titles. He pointed out that Xander Schauffele, who won the gold medal at the last Olympics, and Justin Rose, who has also achieved both milestones, are in a unique position to offer insight into this issue. Rahm highlighted that the Olympics’ relatively recent inclusion in golf’s competitive calendar means its prestige is still evolving.

According to Rahm, while major championships have long been the pinnacle of golf and are deeply entrenched in the sport’s tradition and history, the Olympics could potentially gain greater prestige over time. The limited frequency of the Olympic Games—occurring every four years—adds a layer of rarity and significance to the gold medal. Rahm acknowledged that for the public, major wins might still be seen as the ultimate achievement, but personally, winning an Olympic gold medal could hold a deeper emotional value.

He elaborated that, as a golfer who has not yet won an Olympic gold, it is challenging for him to quantify its importance compared to major victories. Rahm suggested that if he were to win a gold medal, he would be better positioned to provide a more definitive answer to this question. Until then, he admits that it remains a complex and somewhat speculative topic.

Looking ahead, the Olympic gold medal could very well become as significant as a major championship win in the future. The rare opportunity to compete for an Olympic medal every four years, compared to the annual pursuit of majors, could elevate its status among golfers. For now, though, the immediate focus for those competing in Paris will be on their performance rather than contemplating the relative prestige of their achievements.