Jon Rahm has had to eat the humble pie after completely switching sides on whether players are eligible to compete in LIV Golf and PGA Tour events.
Since the launch of the LIV Golf Tour in June 2022, golfers who have competed in the Rebel Series have not been allowed to compete in PGA Tour events, leading to palpable tensions. Last summer, however, when PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan announced a tentative agreement with Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), it seemed to the surprise of many that this animosity would change. ease.
Although 15 months have passed since that announcement, a formal agreement between the two entities has still not been signed, despite ongoing discussions and a recent meeting in New York this month.
Part of a potential agreement that fans and players alike are eagerly anticipating would allow LIV Tour participants to freely return to the PGA Tour. Rahm, who only moved to the LIV Golf League at the end of last year, talked about his expectations for the future during the Spanish Open, saying: “There is only one opportunity that allows us to play freely between tours and enjoy the game.” Golf ball.
“For example, in my case, playing Torrey Pines [Farmers Insurance Open] and the American Express in January and then continue to enjoy being a DP World Tour member and play some tournaments in the fall without any problems. “
However, it should be noted that Lahm's current views mark a significant shift from his earlier views on the matter. In a dramatic twist, past comments from the former world number one golfer have resurfaced following his recent comments in Madrid.
Before his high-profile move to LIV Golf in January 2023, he expressed strong views against players shuttling between tours on the No Laying Up podcast early last year. “I don't see a solution where players are jumping back and forth like, 'We're going to finish the Tour Championship and then tomorrow I'm going to be a part of it. [Phil Mickelson’s LIV Golf team] of HyFlyers,” he said.
“I think you should make a choice,” Lahm 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 20 games, plus another 14 games and then the Ryder Cup, that's a lot of games to play.
“Especially traveling the world…I don't necessarily think you should be able to do both. I'm not judging anyone. Feel free, take the money, go LIV and do what you want. But for me For me, double dipping doesn’t seem like the right approach.”
Despite these early assertions, Rahm became the star attraction when he signed a staggering $600 million contract with Greg Norman's LIV Golf in December. 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 competitive appearance in 2024 outside the controversial Saudi-backed league.
