When quizzed on whether he'd represent Britain or Ireland at future Olympic events, McDowell stated: "I’m not bothered who I play for. I’ll be honoured to represent Britain or Ireland or both. I’m proud to play golf for Europe." On the subject of his nationality, he added: "Yes, I sit on the fence but why not? There’s no right or wrong answer. I’m always going to upset someone so why not sit on the fence?" In the run up to the 2016 Olympics, when golf was reintroduced, Rory McIlroy (representing Ireland) withdrew from the tournament, leaving McDowell with the possibility of representing Ireland as their next highest ranked player. However, McDowell ruled out this possibility by opting to not play in the Olympics. He often travels and practises with Rory McIlroy and Pádraig Harrington.