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Mixed-Team Golf Event Approved for 2028 Los Angeles Olympics
A new mixed-team golf event is set to debut at the Olympic Games in Los Angeles, following approval from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) executive board. This initiative aims to enhance gender inclusivity and broaden participation in Olympic golf, building on the sport’s return to the Games.
The competition is designed as a 36-hole event, featuring two distinct formats: foursomes and fourball. Each team will consist of one male and one female golfer, drawn from the individual men’s and women’s events that will also take place during the Olympics. Notably, only one team per country will be allowed to participate.
The mixed-team event is scheduled to occur between the men’s and women’s competitions at the prestigious Riviera Country Club, which will serve as the tournament venue.
Golf made its Olympic comeback in 2016 during the Rio Games after a hiatus of over a century. The forthcoming Los Angeles Olympics will mark the introduction of the first team-based format since the St. Louis Games in 1904, showcasing the evolving nature of Olympic golf.
Antony Scanlon, the executive director of the International Golf Federation, expressed enthusiasm about the new format, stating, “We’re excited to bring even more attention to our sport through this additional format. The athletes were very enthusiastic about their desire to play with their compatriots, and we look forward to watching them compete together in Los Angeles.”
Team Great Britain’s Justin Rose secured gold in the men’s individual event at Rio 2016, while compatriot Tommy Fleetwood achieved a silver medal at the Paris 2024 Games. Their achievements emphasize the competitive spirit that the new mixed-team event seeks to foster.
Golf is among six sports that will introduce mixed-gender competitions during the LA 2028 Olympics, joining additional events in archery, athletics (4x100m mixed relay), gymnastics, coastal beach sprint rowing, and table tennis. This growing trend reflects broader efforts within the Olympic movement to promote equality and inclusiveness in sports.
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