29-year-old Spaniard Jon Rahm is currently ranked as the third-best golfer in the world. If he moves to LIV Golf, it would throw the balance of the Golf world off the rocks.
But the money they must be offering him could be hard to resist. So, he could choose it over anything else.
Ultimately, what did he choose?
Yes, Jon Rahm has joined LIV Golf. His move has been valued at $US300 million to $US600 million. He said that he entered it to grow the sport and because, financially, “this is a great opportunity for me and my family.” His decision has shocked many cause he had said that he wouldn’t be making this shift.
Has Jon Rahm Joined LIV Golf Already?
Jon Rahm has sent shockwaves through the golf world by officially confirming his transition to LIV Golf, dealing a significant blow to the PGA Tour.
This move, reportedly valued at an astounding $US300 million to $US600 million, has raised eyebrows across the golfing community.
Earlier reports hinted at Rahm’s intention to assemble his four-person team within LIV Golf, an up-and-coming league entering its third season, offering substantial $20 million purses for 54-hole tournaments without a cut.
Rahm’s equity in this team likely plays a pivotal role in the lucrative deal he is set to sign. He expressed his pride in joining LIV Golf, acknowledging its potential to foster growth within the sport.
Rahm said about the move (via ABC News):
“I am proud to join LIV Golf and be part of something new that is bringing growth to the sport. I have no doubt that this is a great opportunity for me and my family and am very excited for the future.”
Rahm didn’t deny he went for the money. But he also said (via The Telegraph):
“As a husband and as a father and family man, I have a duty to my family to give them the best opportunities and the most amount of resources possible.”
Rahm’s acquisition represents a significant coup for the league, as it now boasts a two-time major champion in his prime at 29 years old. His signing has also bolstered LIV Golf’s roster of major champions this year.
LIV Golf is gearing up for a three-day promotional event in Abu Dhabi, commencing on Friday.
This move occurs at a critical juncture for the PGA Tour and PIF, as they seek to solidify a commercial agreement with the Saudi Arabian backers of the rival league while simultaneously grappling with the loss of one of their brightest stars.
Why Did Jon Rahm Signing With LIV Golf Stun The Golfing World?
Jon Rahm’s surprising move to join LIV Golf has rattled the golfing world, given his previous staunch opposition to the league. His decision contradicts his earlier statements about LIV.
Rahm had said when LIV began recruiting players for 2022 (via ABC News):
“The only appeal I see is monetary, right? So like I said just earlier on, I think there’s a lot more to be able to play for besides just money on the PGA Tour. There’s history, there’s legacy. At the end of the day, I’m in this to win tournaments, I’m in this to play against the best in the world.”
Is Jon Rahm Banned From The Ryder Cup?
Upon Jon Rahm’s participation in a LIV event, he faces a 12-month suspension by the DP World Tour, accompanied by a £100,000 fine.
This suspension would hinder his ability to compete in the four annual DP World Tour events necessary to qualify for the Bethpage Black in 2025.
This development has stirred controversy, notably drawing remarks from fellow Team Europe star Rory McIlroy, advocating for a rule adjustment by the DP World Tour to accommodate Rahm.
The DP World Tour is unwilling to modify its regulations to suit Rahm.
Are There Any Other Players Who Can Switch?
Jason Day, Ryder Cup hopeful Adrian Meronk, and Tony Finau have been discussed as potential LIV Golf recruits, but the landscape remains unpredictable.
Patrick Cantlay, a member of the PGA Tour policy board, has engaged in discussions with LIV and might act upon them if discontent grows.
With Rahm’s departure, the PGA Tour faces a less enticing product for potential investors. Thus, it could force them to negotiate with LIV at a price different from the initial June agreement.
This included a reported $1 billion’ equalization pool’ in addition to a $2 billion PIF investment in the PGA Tour.
Are you shocked by the news of Jon Rahms’ departure as well? Do you think he made the right move? Or should he have rejected the LIV offer?
Let us know your thoughts about this situation below.
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