MEMPHIS (Tenn.) — Jon Rahm wanted to discuss what he did the night before in Memphis.
The FedEx St. Jude Championship starts on Thursday. He just completed his press conference at the Phil Cannon Media Center, TPC Southwind.
He wanted to learn more about St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital’s patients that he had met at a FedEx event in one of the giant hangars. Calvin and Olivia made a lasting impression on him.
He said: “We get questions about golf politics, and we talk about LIV Golf all year long. To have Jordan Spieth’s perspective and to do a fun video activation is refreshing.”
Rahm will cherish those moments. He was thrilled to learn that Olivia would be the Purple Eagle recipient of the 11th FedEx Feeder Cessna Caravan. He asked if a flyover would take place this week.
Rahm, the No. 1 player in the FedEx Cup points standings entering Thursday’s first round, said: “It helps you to put things into perspective.” The FedEx Cup standings at the start of Thursday’s round were ranked No. 1. Both of them (Calvin) and Olivia are Purple Eagle recipients. Even within Olivia’s own family, I think her sister also had health problems. “It really makes you realize what is important in life, and how fortunate I am to be where I am.”
The PGA Tour has been in talks with Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund to create LIV Golf and is currently dividing the sport.
Tour commissioner Jay Monahan will meet with players Tuesday.
Officials of the tournament hope that this event won’t be overshadowed by what it means to St. Jude and Memphis.
Joe Tomek is the executive director for the FedEx St. Jude Championship. He said, “There are a lot of things going on, both positive and negative, depending where you stand on the spectrum.” This is a very special place. FedEx is giving back to its hometown. It is an example of what we are capable of doing, but with St. Jude in the spotlight. It represents the positive aspects of golf. “I hope that it is a re-centering.”
This mission has started off well.
Tyrell Hatton is 17th on the FedEx Cup rankings. “Our job this week will be to play golf, just like every week,” he said. “But yes, it is a special cause and the money raised this week, as well as throughout the rest the year, is crucial to continue the good work that these guys do.”
