LIV GOLF LANDS MAJOR COUP WITH JON RAHM ACQUISITION
In professional golf’s ongoing chess match between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, a major move has been made. According to a report in the Wall Street Journal, Jon Rahm, the two-time major winner, defending Masters champion, world No. 3 and Ryder Cup icon, will be leaving the PGA Tour to join LIV Golf starting in the 2024 season.
Rumors of Rahm’s departure had been circulating for weeks, especially after he withdrew from an indoor golf league planned by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy. A non-denial denial and continued silence have only fueled the speculation. When Rahm did not appear at a news conference to promote a PGA Tour event where he’s the defending champion, it became increasingly apparent that a move to LIV was likely. Barring any last-minute negotiations, Rahm will be joining LIV for the 2024 season and beyond.
The move comes at a critical time for the sport as the PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, the financial backer of LIV Golf, are facing a December 31 deadline to formalize an agreement that would end legal hostilities between the two and lay the foundation for the sport going forward. Rahm’s decision to join LIV could be interpreted as an aggressive move by LIV, and also signals the PIF’s willingness to heavily invest in the future viability of LIV Golf.
On a personal level, Rahm’s departure comes as a significant shock given his past statements about the riches and format of LIV Golf. In early 2022, Rahm had officially declared his loyalty to the PGA Tour. However, since then, he has secured a Masters win and the PGA Tour has negotiated a secret agreement with LIV’s financial backers.
Rahm’s move to LIV also raises questions about the Official World Golf Rankings, as LIV Golf tournaments currently do not receive ranking points. This could potentially impact the validity of the rankings and the overall landscape of professional golf.
Losing Rahm is a major blow to the PGA Tour, as he is considered one of the most important golfers on the planet and a key ambassador for the game. His departure could have a significant impact on the future of the PGA Tour.
LIV Golf has been making strides internationally, with plans for more tournaments outside the U.S. Adding Rahm to the mix will further establish and solidify the league’s presence beyond American borders.
Overall, Rahm’s arrival marks a significant win for LIV Golf and a reputational boost that would have otherwise taken the league years to achieve on its own.