Xander Schauffele sums up Olympics with claim about PGA Tour and LIV Golf stars

Xander Schauffele, a prominent figure in the world of golf, has shed light on the heightened significance of the Olympic Games in the sport. Despite golf’s relatively recent reintroduction into the Olympics, it is rapidly becoming one of the most prestigious events for professional players. Schauffele, who has accumulated a notable career with two major championships and nine PGA Tour victories, emphasized the unique importance of the Olympic competition compared to traditional golf tournaments.

In a recent discussion, Schauffele revealed that golf’s elite players are more driven than ever to secure a top-three finish at the Olympics. This sentiment is underscored by his current performance in Paris, where he ended the third round tied for first place with Spain’s Jon Rahm. Great Britain’s Tommy Fleetwood is also in the mix, just one shot behind, highlighting the intense competition as the final round approaches.

Schauffele, who won The Open and The PGA Championship earlier this year, made it clear that the Olympics holds a special place in the hearts of golfers. He noted that while the format remains a 72-hole stroke play, much like any other tournament, the Olympic context adds a layer of national pride and team spirit that intensifies the competition.

In a conversation with the Pardon My Take podcast, Schauffele drew a comparison between the Olympics and traditional majors. He stated, “It’s pretty different. You’re essentially on a team.” He continued by acknowledging that although he approaches the Olympics with the same mindset as a major tournament, there is an additional emphasis on finishing within the top three. “I think the emphasis on second and third is a lot more than a normal tournament,” Schauffele explained. “You podium, versus if you don’t do well and you come in second or third or if you’re doing well and then you fail at the end, you feel (bad). I think in the Olympics, everyone is fighting to finish in the top three more so than any tournament I’d say.”

Rory McIlroy’s experience further illustrates the shift in perspective towards the Olympic Games. Initially skeptical about golf’s reentry into the Olympics when it was reinstated for the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games, McIlroy’s attitude has evolved significantly. Now, he views the prospect of earning a medal—particularly a gold medal—as a potentially defining achievement in his career. Heading into the final round in sixth position, McIlroy acknowledged that winning an Olympic medal could be the highlight of his year. Reflecting on the value of such an accomplishment, he remarked, “If not, I think for me, it’s well documented that I haven’t won one of the big four (majors) in 10 years. It would probably be one if, if not the biggest in my career for the last 10 years.”

McIlroy also shared his appreciation for the vibrant atmosphere of the event in Paris, noting that the crowd support exceeded his expectations. He compared this year’s experience to the subdued atmosphere in Tokyo due to COVID-19 restrictions, expressing his delight at the more enthusiastic and engaging environment in Paris. “With so many events going on spread all across the city, for people to venture out here and to watch us play, it was a really cool atmosphere to play in,” McIlroy said. “I was not expecting this. I thought the weekend it might get a few more people. I thought the first couple days might be a little bit quieter but it was awesome. Tokyo was a ghost town [due to COVID-19 restrictions]. This was much better. I think the crowd support that we all got out there was amazing. Obviously there’s a few more flags and there’s a bit more, I don’t know what the word is, like nationalism. But we were all really well supported out there. It was great to see.”

The excitement and competitive spirit surrounding golf at the Olympics reflect the event’s growing prestige in the sport. Both Schauffele and McIlroy’s comments underscore the unique blend of individual achievement and national pride that the Olympics bring to golf, making it a truly special competition for players and fans alike.