MEN'S OLYMPIC GOLF COMPETITION

August 1, 2024

Jon Rahm

Le Golf National

Spain

Quick Quotes

Q. (On his play in round one)

JON RAHM: It was a good day, a good result. I wasn't comfortable on the course but on the 13th and 12th, I saved some shots, so I had a great day, and it's a shame that swing on 16; I didn't expect it, it was a terrible swing. I took an extra club to make sure I got to the green, but at the end, I finished well.

Q. (On the atmosphere)

JON RAHM: I didn't expect the noise there was and I didn't think I would get the welcome I got on the first tee. It was very emotional that there were so many Spaniards, and on top of that, a lot of non-Spanish public supporting me. Having the Olympic champion and winner of two majors like Xander [in the group], but it was an honour and I hope it will be just as good tomorrow.(On the play of fellow Team Spain competitor David Puig)I spoke to David and he told me that he wasn't happy with how he ended and now I'll see him in the car. Nothing that a good dinner and a bit of fun watching the Olympics can't cure.

Q. (On his strategy on the finishing holes)

JON RAHM: On the 17th you have to hit it as hard as you can and go forward. On the 18th, you have to be a bit more strategic. If you hit a drive and you take a chance, or you hit an iron and you leave yourself a club longer.

Q. (On the weather delay)

JON RAHM: The suspension was at the worst time of the day, right on the 18th. It is the most difficult shot. The issue is stopping for 15-20 minutes and then getting to the tee straight away. It is always complicated; luckily I came out with the par.

Q. (On the fan support around the course)

JON RAHM: The fans have been incredible, especially having Matthieu [Pavon] behind me who looked very enthusiastic. It has been very fun, and the truth is that the French public have always treated me well and love me a lot.

Q. (On the feel around the course)

JON RAHM: The ambience is different because we compete for our countries and the public support each country, and that makes it so special.Part 2(On his play today)It was a good first day, a good result. A shame because I had some great moments on the 3rd and 12th, but the shot on the 16th cost me because if I had gone to green, I would have finished five-under or six-under, but it was still a great day.

Q. (On becoming an Olympian)

JON RAHM: I'm already an Olympian. The truth is that I didn't want to believe it long before starting; it's an honour to be part of the Olympic Village. It's a shame that we're so far away; hopefully next time we'll be closer, but it's an incredible experience and there we are – David and I – following the results, and hopefully one of us can add a medal for Spain.

Q. (On the course conditions today)

JON RAHM: If it doesn't rain, you will be surprised how difficult it can be, even more so if the wind blows. If it is as soft as it was today, there is little to do because the best in the world are here. It is a course that with 15- or 20-under, you should be able to reach, but the weather can change a lot and there are many of us who would like to see it a little more difficult.