The Albatros course at Le Golf National is known for its challenging closing hole, a par 4 that tests players with water hazards and bunkers. However, for the women’s competition at the Olympics, the 18th hole will play as a par 5, making it the shortest par 5 yardage on the LPGA Tour this year. This change in par has the potential to impact the outcome of the tournament, as players will need to navigate the hole differently based on the new scoring designation.
Course setup experts Kerry Haigh and Davide Lantos decided to make the 18th hole a par 5 for the women, providing them with more options and strategies to approach the hole. Haigh believes that this adjustment will create a risk-reward scenario for players, offering them a chance to score well with smart decision-making. The shorter distance and additional stroke on the 18th hole present a unique challenge for the women’s field, requiring precision and strategic play to finish strong.
Top-ranked player Nelly Korda acknowledges the difficulty of the 18th hole, highlighting the firm island green surrounded by water. While some players, like Korda, possess the length to reach the green in two shots, others may opt for a more conservative approach. The varying driving distances within the women’s field add an element of intrigue to how each player will tackle the par 5 finishing hole at the Olympics.
Players like Hannah Green and Stephanie Meadow have different strategies for the 18th hole, taking into account the firming conditions and pin positions on the green. The setup of the course, including the height of the rough, will also play a role in how players navigate the challenging closing hole. With the potential for drama and excitement, the 18th hole promises to be a decisive factor in determining the medalists at the Olympics.
As the competition unfolds, players will need to balance aggressiveness with strategy on the 18th hole, especially considering the demanding nature of the three previous holes on the course. Team USA’s Rose Zhang emphasizes the importance of capitalizing on the par 5 opportunity while acknowledging the potential challenges posed by the hole. Overall, the unique setup of the 18th hole at the Albatros course adds an element of suspense and unpredictability to the Olympic tournament, making it a compelling finale for both players and spectators.
In conclusion, the decision to change the 18th hole at Le Golf National to a par 5 for the women’s competition adds a layer of complexity and excitement to the Olympics. With different player strategies, course conditions, and scoring opportunities, the final hole promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the tournament. Watch as the world’s best female golfers tackle the challenges of the Albatros course and vie for Olympic gold in a test of skill, strategy, and nerves.
