Seems like most the golfers are making a wiser decision than most the swimmers. Maybe the average golfer good enough to even qualify for the Olympics is also used to making up his own mind about putts, drives, clubs, etc., whereas swimmers are usually responding to the orders of their Coach or set demands of a particular contest. There are exceptions on both sides, of course.
Being outside must also be a factor. Golfers would probably spend eight or more hours outside as a minimum. I would refrain from going if was a young man planning to have a family someday.
It’s much more than that. They hire their own caddies, pick the tournaments they want to play in, and book their own airplanes and hotel rooms.
As for the Olympics, it is totally unneeded. There are already four golf majors, four world golf events, the Ryder and Presidents cups, etc, etc.
Let the track and field guys, swimmers, and wrestlers get their turn!
The real sorry souls are those who feel the need to compete in the boating events.
The marathon could also prove to be a very interesting event depending on the route.
A golfer isn’t going to make any extra money or gain more recognition for winning the Olympic Gold. Can anyone name who has won the Tennis gold over the past few Olympics? This is the big enchilada for Swimmers, gymnasts divers, track stars etc. Nobody remembers siwmming world champions.