Jon Rahm’s resolution to play on the LIV Golf circuit in 2024 despatched shockwaves all through the game.
He beforehand expressed loyalty to the PGA Tour, whereas additionally voicing disdain for LIV Golf’s format. However as Rahm stated Thursday, when making his announcement, one thing “modified” inside him over the previous few months.
But, what has not modified inside Rahm is his affection in direction of Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, and Patrick Cantlay. These three gamers are PGA Tour loyalists and have vehemently tried to enhance the construction of the tour as of late. All three have held positions on the PGA Tour Coverage Board inside the final couple of years, however McIlroy lately resigned.
Accordingly, Rahm despatched this trio a heartfelt message whereas asserting his resolution stay on Fox Information.
“The names that come to thoughts are Patrick Cantlay, Rory [McIlroy] and Tiger Woods,” Rahm stated Thursday.
“They’ve spent a whole lot of time in conferences and telephone calls studying about what the way forward for the sport could seem like, and I need to say thanks. I really hope their resolve is what they need. This wasn’t something private with them. It was the selection for me and my household and the higher of our future.”
Jon Rahm simply introduced his transfer from the PGA Tour to LIV Golf stay on Fox Information.
He declined to reply the $$$ query however says he made the most effective resolution for himself and his household.
“I hope all of my mates keep my mates”
Fairly surreal second from the Masters champion. pic.twitter.com/8hnh1oeMLA
— Joe Pompliano (@JoePompliano) December 7, 2023
Rahm will reportedly obtain upwards of $550 million from the Saudi Public Funding Fund (PIF)—LIV Golf’s beneficiary. His transfer comes simply weeks earlier than the Dec. 31, 2023, deadline, a date set by the PGA Tour and the PIF of their Jun. 6, 2023 framework settlement that—like Rahm’s announcement—shocked the sporting world, too.
Whether or not the 2 sides come collectively stays to be seen, however Rahm’s resolution maybe throws a wrinkle within the negotiations. The Spaniard has all the time been thought of one of many PGA Tour’s most vital property.
Nonetheless, Rahm didn’t need to burn bridges, nor did he tarnish the PGA Tour. He even indicated Thursday that he nonetheless desires to play PGA Tour occasions sooner or later. But, LIV golfers stay suspended by the PGA Tour and can’t enter any tour occasions. However that might all change quickly.
“I hope all the buddies that I made nonetheless keep my mates,” Rahm added.
“I’m actually not going to alter, and who I’m doesn’t actually change.”
Jack Milko is a golf workers author for SB Nation’s Enjoying Via. You’ll be able to comply with him on Twitter @jack_milko for extra golf protection. You’ll want to try @_PlayingThrough too.