Graham DeLaet was just one of the 120 golfers in the world who got to compete in the sport’s long-awaited return to the Olympic Games in 2016, as the Saskatchewan native represented Canada and finished 20th. DeLaet, on a recent episode on GOLF’s Subpar, said playing in the Olympics was one of his greatest career accomplishments, only behind his 2013 Presidents Cup appearance.
The 39-year-old won’t be at the Tokyo Games this summer, however, as he’s missed much of the past couple of seasons due to injury. He was out all of 2019 and has made just 10 starts over the past two years, missing the cut in seven of nine events and withdrawing from his latest start, the Houston Open in November. His most recent back procedure was in February, and he’s currently on a major medical extension and hopes to get back on Tour in the near future.
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On Subpar, DeLaet spoke about the state of his game, how he overcame the chipping yips, his early meetings with Jordan Spieth and more. He also discussed his Olympics appearance and had an idea to improve it.
“I really think what they should do is make a team thing with the women,” DeLaet said. “I think that’s the way to really make it intriguing. Make scores count — maybe do a best ball, like a four-team, two-person best ball, one male score and one female score or something, and make like a team medal. And this way you are still keeping your individual scores so you are still going for the individual medal. … I think they are missing the boat there.”
DeLaet certainly isn’t the first to suggest a mixed or team element to the Olympics. He also referenced the Zurich Classic of New Orleans, which he says has been rejuvenated since it switched to a team event in 2017, which has been well-received by players. He thinks those in charge of the Olympics should take note.
“I wouldn’t say it is just another tournament, because it’s not, it’s the Olympics, but make it special,” DeLaet said. “Make it something different.”
You can listen to DeLaet’s entire Subpar episode below.