The lack of recognition for LIV Golf from the Official World Golf Rankings still makes Jon Rahm uncomfortable.
“At this point, I think it would be a mistake not to give LIV world ranking points and the credibility they deserve,” Rahm said on Tuesday ahead of the DP World Tour Dubai Desert Classic.
There are 24 qualifying tours eligible for OWGR points, but LIV is not one of them. LIV withdrew its application for recognition by the OWGR Board of Directors in March 2024.
“I know we all have decisions to make and it's not as easy as it sounds but to say LIV players don't deserve a place in the majors I think is wrong and I hope this develops into what it should be. , yes,” Lahm said.
Although Rahm joined LIV in December 2023, he is still ranked 31st in the world and he has not had any problems qualifying for the majors, but others at LIV have.
“I think Joaquin Niemann has done enough to get to the majors without an invitation,” Rahm said. “A few years ago, Talor Gooch played well enough to get into the majors without an invitation. We should have a way to advance. And the world ranking points, need to be figured out because in that sense , this is not fair to anyone.”
Niemann failed to qualify for the 2024 U.S. Open. Gooch once infamously said that if Rory McIlroy completed the career Grand Slam at the 2024 Masters, the achievement would have an asterisk because some of LIV's top players weren't there. Gooch played in a major last year, finishing tied for 60th at the PGA Championship.
Rahm will compete in Dubai this week as he continues to appeal against a fine imposed by the DP World Tour for fleeing to LIV. The Spaniard must play four non-major DP World Tour events to maintain his European Tour membership – a requirement for the European Ryder Cup team.
“I don't know what's going to happen and I hope they don't try to resolve the appeal before the Ryder Cup. I don't think that's going to do anyone any good,” Rahm said. “But my plan was to go to Bethpage.”
The 2025 Ryder Cup will be held in September on the Black Course at Bethpage State Park on Long Island, New York.
