The news broke after weeks of speculation that Jon Rahm was moving from the PGA Tour over to LIV Golf.
The world’s No. The world No. 3 and defending Masters champion spoke to reporters on Thursday night and explained his decision. He also talked about his legacy. Rahm explained that he made the move because he liked the LIV Golf products, the idea of being able to play in different countries and innovations the league promotes.
The PGA Tour and its most famous players didn’t hesitate to react.
A PGA Tour spokesman told Golfweek that “our focus remains on unifying the game for both our players and fans.” We can’t speak to the decisions made by individual players, but based on momentum and the strength of the PGA Tour and the accelerated interest and negotiations from a number outside investors, the Tour is in a position to allow our players to become equity owners. This will further allow them to invest in their members, fans, and continue leading men’s professional sport forward.
Tiger Woods, a 15-time major winner, shared a message that was sent out to all players on December 1 – read more about that. The memo stated that the Tour’s Player Directors are united and that they work together to “represent PGA Tour, its entire membership, and the best interests of sport.”
Woods’ sharing the memo a week old in the wake of Rahm’s announcement is not a coincidence. World No. Woods appears to have taken over the role of player director from Rory McIlroy, who left the position in June. He may be busy in the next few weeks, if other players follow Rahm’s lead.
