J Rose (GB) -16, H Stenson (SWE) -14, M Kuchar (US) -13
Great Britain’s Justin Rose became golf’s first Olympic champion since 1904 by beating Henrik Stenson to gold in a thrilling final round at Rio 2016. He also became the first ever player to get a hole in 1 in Olympic golf. Not a bad day at the office if you ask us!
The Englishman was level with Stenson on 15 under par after 17 holes but Stenson made a bogey 6 on the 18th. Rose played a superb pitch into the final green leaving a short tap in birdie which he converted for the Gold medal!
The 2013 US Open champion closed with a four under par 67 to win on 16 under.
“That felt better than anything I’ve ever won. It was the best tournament I’ve ever done,” said Rose. “Hopefully we’ve shown Brazil what golf is about. I’m glad it was close. Not for my nerves. For golf.”
It was the perfect outcome following the realisation of a seven-year dream for Rose, who secured Britain’s 12th gold medal in Rio. While several other high-profile golfers had decided not to compete at the Olympics, Rose had relished the prospect of becoming an Olympian since the moment the sport’s return to the games was confirmed in 2009.
Reactions –
Tiger Woods – “Thrilled for Rosie, Henrik and Kuch, but all golfers in Rio this week should be proud.”
Gary Lineker – “A Golden Rose. Brilliant fromJustin Rose. Could not happen to a nicer guy. Marvellous.”
Gareth Bale – “Class Justin Rose.”
Ian Poulter – “Congrats Justin Rose winning Gold for Team GB. Great performance.”
Wayne Rooney – “Congratulations to Justin Rose. Gold medal, absolutely brilliant.”
From everyone at GMUK, Congratulations Justin Rose!