As the Paris Olympics approach, golf enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the competition, set to feature some of the world’s top players. Among the standout athletes, Scottie Scheffler of the United States is a key figure to watch. Having dominated the world rankings for over a year, Scheffler’s performance has drawn comparisons to the peak years of Tiger Woods. His consistency and skill make him a favorite for gold.

Another major contender is Spain’s Jon Rahm, who recently made headlines by joining LIV Golf. Rahm was a top challenger on the PGA Tour and the reigning U.S. Open champion during the Tokyo Games, from which he had to withdraw due to a positive COVID-19 test. His participation in Paris will be closely watched as he represents a significant force in the field. Rory McIlroy of Ireland, who missed out on a medal in Tokyo by a narrow margin, is also set to compete. McIlroy’s decision to represent Ireland after skipping the 2016 Olympics adds a compelling narrative to his Olympic journey.

In the women’s competition, Nelly Korda of the United States is aiming to defend her gold medal from Tokyo. Korda has reasserted her dominance with five consecutive victories on the LPGA Tour, reclaiming the No. 1 ranking. Lydia Ko of New Zealand, who has consistently performed at the highest level, is on the brink of qualifying for the LPGA Hall of Fame. Ko’s history of earning both silver in Rio and bronze in Tokyo makes her a formidable competitor in Paris.

France’s Celine Boutier is another player to watch, particularly with the home crowd behind her. Boutier had a breakout season in 2023 with four victories, including her first major at the Evian Championships. Competing at Le Golf National, a venue rich in history and significance, Boutier is expected to be a crowd favorite. The course, known for hosting the French Open and the 2018 Ryder Cup, adds an extra layer of excitement to the event.

Key dates for the golf competition include June 17 and June 24, when the Official World Golf Ranking will determine the 60-player fields for the men’s and women’s competitions, respectively. The men’s event will take place from August 1-4, followed by the women’s competition from August 7-10. With countries able to send up to four players if they rank in the top 15, the Paris Olympics promise a thrilling showcase of golf’s best talents.