In a move that has reverberated across the golfing world, Jon Rahm, the esteemed Masters champion, has made a monumental shift from the PGA Tour to the Saudi-backed LIV Golf. This transition by the 29-year-old, one of the sport’s most influential and charismatic figures, is seen as a major coup for the LIV Golf circuit, which is backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). Rahm’s decision comes on the heels of Cameron Smith‘s switch to LIV Golf after his 2022 Open Championship win, further intensifying the competition between the traditional PGA Tour and the emergent LIV Golf league.
Rahm, recognized for his skill and popularity in the golf community, expressed excitement about joining LIV Golf, seeing it as an excellent opportunity for both his professional career and his family. His departure is a significant blow to the PGA Tour, which has already seen a stream of its prominent players joining the breakaway league. Reports suggest Rahm’s contract with LIV Golf could be worth at least $300 million, with some speculations estimating it closer to $600 million.
Rumors of Rahm’s potential switch began circulating after he withdrew from the American Express tournament, a PGA Tour event he previously won and where he is the reigning champion. Rahm is set to debut in the LIV Golf league at their season opener in Mexico at LIV Golf Mayakoba.
Greg Norman, LIV Golf’s commissioner and CEO, lauded Rahm as a generational talent and a major champion, highlighting his contributions as a global ambassador for golf. Rahm’s addition to LIV Golf places him among a roster of major winners like Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka, and Bryson DeChambeau, further enhancing the league’s profile.
LIV Golf’s acquisition of Rahm follows the two tours’ announcement of a merger to form a unified commercial entity, aiming to settle their legal disputes and unify the sport. Despite these efforts, a final agreement remains elusive, making Rahm’s move a strategic win for LIV Golf.
Lawrence Burian, LIV Golf’s COO, emphasized the league’s long-term vision and continued investment, highlighting Rahm’s addition as evidence of LIV Golf’s sustained growth and ambition.
Rahm’s illustrious career includes 20 wins, two major titles, three DP World Tour Championships, and participation in three Ryder Cups, with victories in 2018 and 2023. His accolades include being named the 2021 PGA of America Player of the Year and twice receiving the European Tour (DP World Tour) Golfer of the Year award. His transition to LIV Golf marks a pivotal moment in the sport, signaling a new era of competition and reshaping the landscape of professional golf.
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