Rose wins Golf’s gold in Rio

 

Team GB’s Justin Rose became Golf’s first Olympic champion since 1904 after the Englishman saw off Swede Henrik Stenson in an enthralling final round at Rio 2016.

The 36 year old, who was level with Stenson on 25 under par after 17 holes, ended the day with a birdie to win by two shots after the Swede bogeyed on the 18th.

The 2013 US Open champion hit a four-under-par 67 to win on 16 under. Stenson took silver for Sweden on 68, with American Matt Kuchar winning bronze after he carded a 63, 13 under par. 

“That felt better than anything I’ve ever won,” said Rose.

“It was the best tournament I’ve ever done. Hopefully we’ve shown Brazil what golf is about. I’m glad it was close. Not for my nerves, for golf.”

While many high profile golfers decided not to participate in Brazil, Rose relished in the possibility of him becoming an Olympian following the decision for the sport to return to the games in 2009.

In terms of his eagerness, Rose arrived in Brazil one week before the Olympics officially started, and was part of Team GB’s opening ceremony.

Not only did he secure gold, but the Englishman also made Olympic history after he hit golf’s first hole in one at the games in the opening round.

Stenson carded birdies in four of his first ten holes and drew level with Rose when the leader dropped a shot on the 13th.

It looked like a play-off would be needed to separate them but Rose held his nerve on the par-five last, chipping his approach to two feet from the hole, capitalising on the Swede’s poor finishing.