Jon Rahm’s switch to LIV Golf has finally been confirmed, with the reigning Masters champion signing for the breakaway circuit for a rumoured $500m plus.
It represents quite the U-Turn for the three-time DP World Tour Championship, who had previously said in 2022 that LIV’s three-day events, with shotgun starts and no cut, was “not appealing” and he was chasing a golfing legacy over money.
“Things have changed a lot in the game of golf over the past two years and I’ve seen the growth of LIV Golf and the innovation,” Rahm told Fox News.
“That’s why I’m here today. This decision was made for many reasons and what I thought was best for me. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a great deal.
“I’ve been very happy but there is a lot of things that LIV Golf has to offer that were very enticing. It was a great offer. The money is great, obviously it’s wonderful.
“What I said before is true: I do not play golf for the money. I play golf for the love of the game and for the love of golf.
“But, as a husband, as a father and as a family man I have a duty to my family to give them the best opportunities and the most amount of resources possible and that is where that comes in.
“I’m no stranger to hearing some negative things on social media or in media. It’s part of what it is, we’re public figures but you just learn to deal with it right? This certainly won’t define who I am or change who I am.”
So, what does this mean for the Spaniard’s Ryder Cup future? He will need to remain a DP World Tour member if he is to play at Bethpage in 2025, but could be faced with the prospect of paying a fine each time he plays a LIV Golf event, joining the likes of Ian Poulter, Sergio Garcia and Lee Westwood, who all had to pay hefty fines before revoking their DP World Tour membership.
“My position for the Ryder Cup remains the same,” said Rahm.
“I’ve explained many times how meaningful it is to me and I hope I can be in future editions.
“That’s not up to me right now, but if it was up to me, I’ll be eligible to play so I surely hope I can keep up the good golf and give them a reason to have me on the team.
“It’s a big risk to take, but I’ve had it in consideration and again, I’m hopeful that I can be part of the team again.”
Those rules currently in place could also change, with a proposed merger between the Public Investment Fund, LIV Golf and DP World Tour currently in negotiations. Although any confirmation of the deal is expected to be delayed beyond the deadline of 31st December.