In the last few months, LIV golf players and officials were confident that new talent would join the league in 2024.
The new circuit, backed by the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, made its biggest acquisition to date on Thursday when it acquired world No. Jon Rahm, world No. The 29-year old is the reigning Masters Champion as well as 2021 U.S. Open winner who also has 11 PGA Tour, 10 DP World Tour victories.
Since weeks, the writing on the wall has been there. Rahm pulled out of the TGL, the new technology-infused league that Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy are leading. was able to postpone the league until 2025. Rahm was not listed on the PGA Tour field for next month’s American Express, where he is the defending champion.
Rahm, in a Thursday night conference call with reporters, spoke of his legacy. He said that he made the move because he liked the LIV Golf brand, the idea to play in different countries, and the innovations the league promotes. Rahm also spoke about his legacy, and said that he is confident in the decision he has made.
Every decision we make, I believe there will be someone who likes it or agrees with it. Rahm said, “I made this decision as I think it’s best for me and my entire family. Everyone I’ve spoken to has shown me great support.” “I’m comfortable with my choice. I’m used to hearing negative comments on social media and in the media. We’re all public figures, but we just have to learn how to deal with that. “This certainly won’t change or define who I am.”
ESPN reported that Rahm would have his own LIV team, and that LIV was recruiting new players. However, the Spaniard did not reveal any details about his new contract.
Rahm had previously been adamant he would like LIV Golf’s Sergio Garcia be involved last fall in the Ryder Cup. He went 2-0-2 as part of a winning European effort. Rahm hopes to continue to be involved with future editions.
My position on the Ryder Cup remains unchanged. I love the Ryder Cup. I’ve told many people how important it is to my life and I hope to be a part of future Ryder Cups,” said Rahm. He cited the bi-annual bash against Americans as his biggest obstacle in deciding to leave for LIV. It’s not my decision, but I would be able to play if I wanted to. I hope to keep up good golf. I will continue to play good golf.
“It is a risky move, but it’s something I have considered and I hope to be able to join the team once again.”
What about the format, though? Rahm had previously stated that the LIV format was “not really appealing to me”. To me, shotgun three days is not a tournament. There’s no cut. It’s just that simple.”
Opinions change.
Rahm stated, “The game of golf has changed dramatically over the last two years. Things have changed and I have too.” “Seeing LIV Golf grow, see the evolution of the LIV Golf brand and the innovation has captured my attention.”
“I’ve been very intrigued by the growth I’ve witnessed and how golf has become a global industry. We can have a significant impact on golf around the world,” he said. “I like many things about this movement but there will always be things I don’t like, and that is the case in everyone’s life. It’s a machine that is constantly growing and changing, right? “I’m hoping that LIV Golf leaders will listen to my advice, and make some improvements in the future.”
Rahm won 11 times, finished 10th, and had 10 third place finishes in 151 PGA Tour starts. He has a total of $51,546,651.
