Jon Rahm while competing in LIV Golf. (Image: Getty Images)
has had to eat humble pie after he completely flipped his stance on the issue of players being eligible to participate in both and events.
Since the inception of the LIV Golf circuit in June 2022, golfers who have played in the rebel series haven’t been allowed to join PGA Tour events, leading to notable tension. However, the animosity looked set to ease last summer when PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan surprised many by announcing a tentative agreement with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF).
Although 15 months have passed since that declaration, an official accord between the opposing entities remains unsigned, despite ongoing discussions and a recent meeting in New York this month.
Part of the potential agreement much anticipated by fans and players alike would allow competitors from the LIV circuit to freely return to the PGA Tour. Rahm, who only moved to the LIV Golf league at the end of last year, spoke out during the Spanish Open about what kind of future he hopes for, saying: “Just one that allows us to play freely between tours and enjoy the game of golf.
“For example, in my case, play Torrey Pines [Farmers Insurance Open] and the American Express in January, then continue to enjoy being a DP World Tour member and play some events in the fall without any problems.”
However, it should be noted that Rahm’s current view marks a significant turnaround from his earlier thoughts on the matter. In a dramatic twist, former world No. 1 golfer’s past comments have resurfaced following his recent remarks in Madrid.
Before his high-profile switch to LIV Golf in January 2023, he expressed strong views against players flitting between tours on the No Laying Up podcast early last year. “I can’t see a solution where you can have players bouncing back and forth, like, ‘We’re finishing the Tour Championship and then tomorrow I’m part of [Phil Mickelson’s LIV Golf team] the HyFlyers’,” he stated.
Jon Rahm in action in Spain. (Image: Getty)
“I think you should make a choice,” Rahm added.
He further elaborated on the challenges of such a packed schedule: “I know we’re independent contractors, but man… If you want to play, go ahead. Play in 20 events, plus another 14, then the Ryder Cup, that’s a lot of tournaments to play.
“Especially going around the world… I don’t necessarily think you should be able to do both. I’m not judging anybody. Feel free, take the money, go to LIV, do what you want. But for me, double-dipping doesn’t seem like it’s the right thing to do.”
Despite these earlier assertions, Rahm signed a staggering $600 million deal with Greg Norman’s LIV Golf in December, becoming its star attraction. Since then, he has been an active participant in the LIV circuit, leading the Legion XIII team.
His appearance in Spain this week marks his first event of 2024 outside the controversial Saudi-backed league.