Lydia Ko, the golfing superstar and two-time Olympic medalist, is currently competing in her third Olympic appearance at Le Golf National. Having won silver in Rio at 19 and bronze in Tokyo at 24, Ko brings a unique perspective to the event, having witnessed the growth of the Olympics since golf was reintroduced to the program in 2016. She acknowledges the external factors that have influenced players’ decisions to attend the Games and believes that the event has grown significantly, especially with Scottie Scheffler’s recent back-nine 29 to win gold in the men’s competition.
Ko’s journey to the Olympics began when she was just 12 years old, dreaming of representing New Zealand in the Summer Games. In Rio, she put herself in medal contention with a strong performance in the third round and ultimately won the silver by one shot. Now at 27, Ko reflects on her past achievements and contemplates whether this may be her last opportunity to compete in the Olympics. With 20 career LPGA victories, she is one win away from qualifying for the LPGA Hall of Fame and sees the Olympics as a potential route to achieving that prestigious milestone.
As a former world No. 1 player, Ko recognizes the significance of being an Olympian and takes pride in her accomplishments. She sees herself as a role model for young golfers who may aspire to represent their countries in future Games. Ko is one of 15 women competing in the Olympics for the third time, highlighting her longevity and consistency in a sport that awards only three medals at each Olympic Games.
Reflecting on her previous Olympic experiences, Ko acknowledges the different points in her career and the various challenges she has faced on the Olympic stage. Despite her nerves in Rio as the top-ranked player, she managed to secure a silver medal and went on to win bronze in Tokyo with a more relaxed mindset. Now in Paris, Ko is focused on enjoying the Games and giving herself a good chance to win another medal, recognizing the unpredictable nature of sports and the importance of savoring each opportunity.
Ko’s medals hold sentimental value for her, with her family members holding onto the silver and bronze medals she has won. However, she envisions a different storage situation if she were to win the gold, planning to display all three medals together as a testament to her hard work and dedication. With the potential to medal in three different Summer Olympics, Ko remains a formidable competitor in the world of golf and a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes around the globe.
