There are four chances every year to win a Major. But the Olympics only come along once every four years. So for every 16 Major winners from this year onwards, there is just one Olympic champion. That’s a pretty special achievement in itself, but you know you’ve done something truly historic when you win the first gold medal that’s been available in golf for 112 years. That’s exactly what Justin Rose achieved in Rio de Janeiro in 2016.
There was never any doubt that the Englishman would be in Brazil to represent his country. He understood the significance of golf’s return to the greatest sporting stage on the planet, the incredible opportunities taking part would present to him and the history that was at stake for that one lucky and talented golfer who emerged victoriously. Rose did himself and Team GB proud – helping to lift his nation to second in the medals table and inspiring a new generation of potential golfers all across the globe.
And while skeptics might claim that gold doesn’t mean as much as a Major, who’s to say history won’t one day judge the Olympics with the same – or even greater – importance? After all, the Masters wasn’t seen as a Major the first few years it was played as a simple invitational tournament, and the Western Open was considered a Major in the pre-war era, so things change and the game evolves.
This story is from the August 2021 edition of Golf Asia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the August 2021 edition of Golf Asia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Find Balance To Beat Pressure
Be the golfer who treats triumph and disaster just the same
HOW GRAYSON MURRAY RECLAIMED HIS LIFE AT THE SONY OPEN
The American overcame anxiety attacks on a recovery that helped him claim a win in Hawaii.
NICE WORK IF YOU CAN GET IT
The Sentry winner Chris Kirk rediscovers joy in his craft.
WELLNESS FROM THE SOURCE
Planning a wellness holiday but don't know where to start? Consider VistaJet's programme that will connect you to ancient and cutting-edge wellness practice across the globe
INSIDE AND OUT
Skincomm's new product AgeREcode™ professes revitalisation from within.
VIVA LA ROSSA
From a narrow strip just 12km long and 1k wide comes some of Australia's - and the world's best red wines. Here's why Coonawarra's juicy exports are perfect for leisurely sipping.
ANNYEONGHASEYO IN LANG CO
Laguna Lang Co introduces Korean fare.
MORE THAN AN IDEA
The MINI Concept Aceman sheds light on what is to come.
EVERYDAY SUPERCAR
The new McLaren GTS offers the best in driveability in a supercharged package.
HIGH PERFORMANCE ON THE OPEN ROAD
The Pagani Imola Roadster combines high-tech panache with the pleasures of a convertible.