Harrington believes he can win Olympic gold in Rio
Three-time major winner Padraig Harrington is excited to compete in the Rio Olympics and believes he can bring home a gold medal.
Some of the best golfers in the world have passed up on the opportunity to play at the games this summer due to concerns over the Zika virus and busy schedules.
However, Harrington accepted the invitation from Ireland to compete following the high-profile withdrawals from Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell and he can't wait to get started.
"I'm really looking forward to Rio. My whole family are going," he told Reuters following a practice session at Baltusrol, ahead of the PGA Championship on Thursday.
"We're busy getting our tickets organized for the second week that we're there. It's a big deal for us."
McIlroy and McDowell withdrew citing concerns over the mosquito-borne Zika virus, which has been suspected of leading to thousands of babies being born with underdeveloped brains.
The World Health Organisation has announced the infection is spreading rapidly in the Americas and world number one Jason Day, along with Dustin Johnson and Jordan Spieth have all pulled out.
Despite concerns of others, Harrington will be competing as part of a 60-man Rio field and is hoping to come away victorious.
"I'm going down there to try and win. No doubt about it, I believe I can win," said Harrington, who is ranked 150th in the world.
The 44-year-old Irishman insists he planned his summer around playing the Olympics and two majors.
"I wanted to do my preparation for all three and if I played well in one of those three would have a good chance of winning," he said.
"It didn't happen at the (British) Open. I've won three majors and I'm happy to take either," he said of the PGA or the Olympics.
"I could understand if you haven't won a major, making that more of a priority. But I think an Olympic gold would add a lot to my career."
Latest
-
NewsRory McIlroy determined to boost Masters chances by cutting out mistakes
The Northern Irishman has gone six years without adding to his four major titles.
-
NewsRoss McGowan ends long wait with win at Italian Open
The Englishman had just one European Tour top 10 in four seasons when he arrived at Chervo Golf Club.
-
NewsBryson DeChambeau Claims 400-yard Carry
With the remainder of the famous golfers doing their best to prepare for the Zozo Championship, Bryson DeChambeau has something else in mind
-
NewsTyrell Hatton: It’s much ado about a hoodie
Tyrell Hatton his happy to be turning heads with his hoodie, which has made unexpected waves.
-
NewsRory McIlroy acknowledges dry spell ahead of Zozo Championship
Rory McIlroy sees this weeks’ Zozo Championship as an opportunity to end his win drought and gain some confidence.
-
NewsTiger Woods feeling in form as he returns to Sherwood in build-up to Masters
The 44-year-old is happy with his game as Masters season begins in earnest.
-
NewsJason Kokrak: I couldn’t be happier
Jason Kokrak was beaming from ear to ear having finally earned his maiden PGA Tour title on Sunday.
-
NewsSpain’s Adrian Otaegui finishes with a flourish to win Scottish Championship
The Spaniard now has a professional victory in three different formats of the game.
-
NewsThe Rise of Golf: Increasing Popularity of Golf in the US
Golf is played across the US and it’s gaining popularity amongst many Americans.
-
NewsMatt Wallace reaping rewards from taking pressure off his performances
There are seven British players in the top ten at Fairmont St Andrews.