Scottie Scheffler’s Triumph: Olympic Gold in Men’s Golf Final?

The world’s No. 1 player stormed from behind with a 62 at Le Golf National for a one-shot victory over Tommy Fleetwood.

SAINT-QUENTIN, France — Scottie Scheffler, the world’s top-ranked golfer, delivered a phenomenal performance on Sunday, coming from four shots behind to claim Olympic gold in men’s golf. His 9-under 62 at Le Golf National secured him a thrilling one-shot victory over Tommy Fleetwood.

With this win, Scheffler adds Olympic gold to his already remarkable year, which includes six PGA Tour wins and a second Masters title. His final round kept approximately 30,000 fans on edge as they witnessed the nail-biting conclusion.

Jon Rahm of Spain initially seemed in control with a four-shot lead over Fleetwood by the 11th hole. However, Rahm’s sudden collapse allowed Fleetwood to catch up within two holes, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.

This turn of events opened up opportunities for six golfers, including France’s Victor Perez, who finished just one stroke shy of the podium.

But it was Scheffler who seized the moment, delivering four consecutive birdies. His pivotal shot came on the 17th hole, where he managed to hit an 18-foot birdie putt from the deep rough, taking the lead for the first time that day.

Scheffler’s Olympic record of 19-under 265 for 72 holes is now official. Fleetwood, who slipped from the lead due to a bogey on the 17th hole, managed a par on the final hole with a 66 to secure the silver medal.

Hideki Matsuyama claimed the bronze medal, remaining competitive up until the back nine, where he concluded with six straight pars for a round of 65.

Scheffler’s victory marks the second consecutive gold for an American golfer in the Olympics, following Xander Schauffele’s win in Tokyo.

Schauffele had been tied for the 54-hole lead with Rahm but also experienced a setback. Rory McIlroy, just one shot off the lead, faltered by hitting a wedge into the water on the 15th hole, further adding to the day’s drama.