Scottie Scheffler rewarded after showing true colours despite forgettable US Open

Scottie Scheffler rewarded after showing true colours despite forgettable US Open

Scottie Scheffler, despite a less-than-stellar performance at the US Open, has realized a lifelong dream with his selection to Team USA for the Paris Olympics. The current world No.1 is set to chase Olympic glory alongside his compatriots and elite golfers, setting the stage for an intense competition in Paris this summer.

Scheffler, 28, who balances a demanding golf schedule with new fatherhood, has always harbored Olympic aspirations. His inclusion in the Olympic squad is a significant milestone, fulfilling a goal he has cherished for years. “Becoming an Olympian would be a dream come true,” Scheffler stated back in May. He added with a touch of humor, “It would be a nice little thing to be able to trash talk my buddies about when they say golfers aren’t athletes and I can claim I’m an Olympian!”

Joining Scheffler in representing the USA are Xander Schauffele, the gold medalist from the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, Collin Morikawa, and Wyndham Clark. This formidable team comprises four golfers ranked within the top 15 of the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR), showcasing the depth of talent in American golf.

The Olympic men’s golf event, scheduled from August 1-4, promises a star-studded field. Top golfers like Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, and British stars Tommy Fleetwood and Matt Fitzpatrick are set to compete. Notably absent, however, will be Bryson DeChambeau, despite his recent victory at the US Open.

DeChambeau’s association with the controversial LIV Golf Tour has hindered his ability to accumulate OWGR points, crucial for Olympic qualification. Despite his triumph at Pinehurst No.2, his ranking still lags behind the USA’s top four and Patrick Cantlay. DeChambeau expressed his frustrations on the Pat McAfee Show, reflecting on the missed opportunity due to Covid-19 during the Tokyo Games and the ongoing challenges posed by his LIV affiliation. “I made the choices I have made and there’s consequences to that,” he acknowledged, while hoping for a resolution that would allow him to compete in future Olympics.

The race for the Paris Olympics is intensifying, with 45 spots allocated and a two-player limit per country, except for those with multiple players in the top 15. The anticipation builds as the world’s best golfers prepare to vie for Olympic glory. The men’s event will take place from August 1-4, followed by the women’s competition from August 10-13.

Scheffler’s journey to the Olympics, marked by perseverance and dedication, exemplifies the spirit of the Games. As he and his teammates prepare to compete on the global stage, golf enthusiasts around the world eagerly await what promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent and sportsmanship in Paris.