The tranquil greens of JCB Golf & Country Club in Uttoxeter, UK, are about to witness an electrifying showdown this weekend as seven LIV Golf Olympic qualifiers gather for the LIV Golf UK by JCB.
Among the qualifiers are Adrian Meronk of Cleeks GC, Abraham Ancer and David Puig of Fireballs GC, Carlos Ortiz, Mito Pereira, and Captain Joaquín Niemann of Torque GC, along with Captain Jon Rahm of Legion XIII.
These golfers, each an Olympian in their own right, share their thoughts on the significance of this prestigious honour.
David Puig’s Pride and Persistence
For David Puig, representing Spain in the Olympics is a culmination of years of dedication and travel.
“It means the world to me. I put a lot of hard work and miles into this, travelling to different countries on the LIV and Asian Tour.
It’s paid off, and I’m super proud and excited to represent Spain next week,” he shared with a smile that spoke volumes about his journey.
Mito Pereira’s Quest for a Medal
Mito Pereira, set for his second Olympic appearance, emphasised the honour of representing his country.
“It’s an honour to represent your country every time you can. We’ve been doing it since we were kids.
To do it in the Olympics is big for me. This is my second time playing, and I hope to get a medal for our country,” said Pereira, reflecting on his childhood dreams.
Abraham Ancer’s Passion for National Pride
Abraham Ancer, who has previously competed in both the Tokyo Olympics and the Pan-American Games, expressed the unique thrill of representing his country.
“It’s an honour. We don’t get to do this very often. Every opportunity to contribute with a medal for your country is special.
Carlos and I take it very seriously and are looking forward to Paris, hoping to come back with a medal. That’s the dream we have,” he said.
Joaquín Niemann’s Olympic Aspirations
Joaquín Niemann, a seasoned Olympian alongside Mito Pereira, shared his excitement for the upcoming games in Paris.
“It’s super special for me. We’ve played in Japan and Chile for the Pan-American Games. Mito was close to getting a medal in Japan.
It’s going to be different in Paris, more open for spectators. I’m looking forward to that week and hopefully bringing back two medals,” he said with optimism.
Carlos Ortiz’s Honor and Motivation
Carlos Ortiz mirrored the sentiments of his peers, underscoring the pride in representing Mexico.
“It’s an honour representing your country. Doing it in Paris with spectators will be great.
Every chance to represent your country is an honor, and it adds extra motivation knowing your country is behind you,” Ortiz stated, acknowledging the support of his nation.
Jon Rahm’s Perspective on Olympic Gold
Jon Rahm, reflecting on the relatively new opportunity for golfers in the Olympics, conveyed the evolving significance of the event.
“It’s a different answer for many golfers because it’s not something we grew up knowing was a possibility.
To be part of it is special. Winning a gold medal is arguably one of the most impressive feats in sports.
To add to your country’s medal count is something special,” Rahm explained.
When asked about the potential impact of winning an Olympic medal, Rahm elaborated on the challenge.
“It’s hard to say where a gold medal would rank among my successes. It’s a new experience for us in golf, and its significance might grow over time.
If I win, I’ll have a clearer perspective on its place in my career,” he reflected.
On Olympic Qualification Challenges
The issue of some qualifiers not being able to participate, such as Joost Luiten from the Netherlands, was also discussed.
Rahm expressed his confusion about the qualification criteria, stating, “I don’t really know the qualifying criteria. I know for other sports it’s different.
We do it based on World Rankings. It’s unfortunate if he did qualify, for him not to be able to go.”
Jon Rahm’s Ryder Cup Memories
Rahm reminisced about his memorable victory over Tiger Woods at Le Golf National, which he ranks highly among his achievements.
“It was my first ever Ryder Cup point, so it ranks very high. To win my first Ryder Cup point on Sunday against Tiger, it’s quite unique. It’s going to be very high up there.”
Scepticism About Golf in the Olympics
When asked about the initial scepticism surrounding golf’s inclusion in the Olympics, Rahm was adamant about golf’s significance.
Abraham Ancer joined in, pointing out the professional status of many Olympic athletes, “Michael Phelps isn’t a professional? LeBron James isn’t a professional?
It’s hard to say. Did Neymar win the gold medal for his country in Brazil? I understand if the Olympics want to have impactful sport and viewership, you’re going to have to have the most impactful players.”
Representing Spain
Abraham Ancer also shared his experiences of representing Spain, highlighting the pride and honour involved.
“I’ve been able to do it luckily in many stages throughout my career, as an amateur and as a pro.
To once more in a different stage be able to do it is so special. If me and David can end up with a medal, that would be absolutely incredible.”
Discussions About Olympic Medals
Ancer reflected on conversations he missed having with Justin Rose about his Olympic gold medal.
“I have not, no. Probably should have. He won it right when I turned pro and I didn’t know Justin yet. It would be interesting to hear the answer.”
David Puig’s Climb to the Top
Ancer also praised David Puig for his determination and hard work in climbing the World Rankings.
“When I signed up to play LIV Golf, he was telling me how he wanted to earn these rankings points to be in the majors and play the Olympics.
To come in clutch and do it was quite special. I’m really excited to be his partner.”
The Road to Paris and Beyond
As these elite golfers prepare for both the LIV Golf UK by JCB and the upcoming Paris Olympics, their shared sense of honour and determination is palpable.
Despite the challenges and the competitive nature of the sport, their focus remains on representing their countries with pride and aiming for the pinnacle of Olympic glory.
In this gathering of golf greats, the spirit of competition is matched only by the camaraderie and shared aspirations for Olympic success.
As Jon Rahm put it, “It’s a dream come true, a dream that became a possibility only eight years ago. It’s quite special.”
