‘Not Technically the Strongest Field’: Scottie Scheffler’s Olympic Gold Not Enough to Eliminate LPGA Champ’s Doubts About Controversial Format

The men’s Olympic golf event in Paris has ended, with Scottie Scheffler standing tall atop the podium, a gold medal around his neck. Yet as the dust settles, some questions are beginning to arise about the Olympics stroke play format. Is golf’s traditional format fit for the Olympic stage? LPGA golfer Jenny Shin ignited a fierce debate on social media with her bold and provocative proposal. 

Jenny Shin, the LPGA star, shared her unvarnished viewpoint on her X handle. Shin’s comments suggest the current Olympic format may not be the most engaging. The traditional 4-day individual stroke play, used in most professional golf tournaments, might not be the best fit for the Olympics.

The Rolex Rankings No. 48, wrote, “Not my idea, however, I wonder how fun it would be if golf in Olympics was a different format than its regular 4-day event. 2-person team play, men & women team play from each country. After all, it’s not technically the strongest field compared to every other tournament they play.” Her post sparked a lively discussion on the future of Olympic golf, with many weighing in on her suggestion.

Moreover, Shin also believes that golf could benefit from a more collaborative and inclusive approach if a team-based or similar format is included in the Olympics. The results of this approach could potentially lead to more competitive, exciting, and unpredictable outcomes.

For those unfamiliar with the current format, the stroke play format means that the player with the fewest total number of shots after four days and 72 holes wins. The no-cut format, however, may not be the most fitting for the Olympic stage, according to the 31-year-old. Notably, it is similar to the LIV Golf format, which features a 54-hole format and is a day shorter, or like other alternative formats that could potentially, be explored. 

But is Jenny Shin the only one who wonders about a different format for the quadrennial event? 

Jenny Shin voiced the fans demanding a change 

The golf community has been echoing similar sentiments for quite some time. When golf returned to the Olympics in 2016, many were thrilled, but some critics pointed out that the format didn’t provide a suitable platform for the sport. It is criticized for being ‘Boring’ and predictable, with many calling for a change. 

Building on the momentum, fans and golf enthusiasts demand a change. They suggest alternative formats like stroke play and match play or team competitions. Furthermore, with the Olympics holding the authority to innovate, the golf community expects a more exciting and unpredictable format for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

How do you see the Olympics Golf, if the current format gets renovated, with a more thrilling mix? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.