Masters 2024: A year can make a significant difference when it comes to defending Masters champion Jon Rahm.

As Jon Rahm prepares to defend his Masters title this year, there is a profound irony in store for him. In 2023, he was hailed as the PGA Tour’s hero after an exhilarating final round where he thwarted Brooks Koepka and Phil Mickelson from defecting to LIV. However, last December saw Rahm abandon the tour himself and join the breakaway league – something that makes his current situation all the more ironic.

Moreover, Rahm is not only the headline act but also the most significant attainment of LIV. Despite being in identical circumstances to his previous year’s participation at The Masters as a 29-year-old Spaniard, competing alongside twelve other members from LIV alters the atmosphere entirely. It should come as no shock that with such great changes occurring around him, even Rahm’s language has transformed significantly over time.

Rahm expressed his wholly favorable views on the structure of LIV Golf during a podcast appearance released in late March.

As a player, he noted that although there are some distinctions such as the shotgun start and three rounds in this tournament, once you get into it, the limited round format tends to slip one’s mind until someone reminds them. He emphasized how having scheduled competition hours makes for an easier product offering. The altered atmosphere includes music and a different vibe which make it more appealing to younger generations who may not have previously shown interest in golf. Therefore, he encourages those who haven’t seen it yet to come watch because of its distinctiveness and entertainment value.

If you’re a time traveler who just landed from 2022, the statement isn’t surprising for those following professional golf in recent times. But to someone new, it can be shocking. Rory McIlroy publicly voiced his thoughts on LIV’s evolution during several tournaments over many years; however, Jon Rahm remained mostly silent about the breakaway circuit despite expressing staunch opposition when he did speak up. Nevertheless, by 2023’s end Rahm had changed course entirely in support of LIV.

Rahm’s transformation from a firm detractor of LIV to its primary signee and essential advocate can be divided into three separate periods when tracing its evolution.

Age I: The Time of Firm Resistance

“In February 2022, while speaking to the gathered media at Riviera, Rahm declared that this would be his only official statement on the matter. He pledged fealty to the PGA Tour and stated his belief in Jay Monahan and their future product as a PAC member. Despite rumors of joining the Saudi league circulating among golfers like himself, he expressed no interest given it did not align with his personal goals for success within professional golf. Instead, he claimed that committing fully to playing under PGA Tour regulations was crucial for establishing an enduring legacy.”

Although Rahm is not the first player to backtrack on seemingly definitive statements, his defense of the PGA Tour before its 2022 launch was notably forceful compared to others who eventually joined LIV. Though he tried to distance himself from further discussion on the topic, this would prove untrue as evidenced by his more extensive comments at a later date during the U.S. Open where he described declining a rumored offer from LIV prior to their official rollout in June.

Although money is certainly a positive thing, the question arose when my spouse Kelley and I sat down to talk about it. The inquiry was whether our way of life would be altered by acquiring $400 million – which he posed as a rhetorical thought. To answer his own query, there would not be any changes at all in how we live presently. In actuality, if desired, I could already retire based on what has been earned thus far; lead an incredibly satisfying existence without golfing again. That being said: playing for financial gain hasn’t ever driven me towards this sport— rather it’s always been played out of passion while striving to compete with world-class peers. Both history and legacy have sparked interest within myself that continues currently through PGA Tour events.”

He kept on praising the tour, focusing particularly on it.

Winning the Memorial Championship, Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill tournament, and other prestigious events like L.A. or Torrey Pines carries a significant sense of accomplishment to me. These historic venues hold sentimental value in my heart as well. Winning at Torrey Pines this past U.S Open has elevated its importance since only Tiger Woods and I have won there before; sinking putts on 18 is an unforgettable moment that not many share. My devotion lies with the PGA Tour- nothing more needs saying from me.”

Ultimately, he attempted the format.

He expressed that to him, a shotgun with three days is not merely a golf tournament without any elimination rounds. He emphasized that it’s quite straightforward – he desires to compete against the world’s most talented players in an event format with centuries of historical significance.

Rahm, who happens to be good friends with Sergio Garcia, was tactful in avoiding open criticism of the players who attended LIV. He refrained from disclosing the origin of their funds; yet his remarks were significant at a time when PGA Tour required strong backing from high-ranking officials.

During the Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas that autumn, Rahm’s position appeared invincible as he stated, “I am exceptionally blessed and fortunate in life,” emphasizing his financial success through exceptional golf play.

He added that players similar to him should express gratitude towards LIV Golf because it boosted his capacity for earning on the PGA Tour.

Era II experienced a minor relaxation.

During the timeframe between Winter 2022 and Fall 2023, which encompassed his Masters victory, Rahm continued to stay tight-lipped about LIV. However, there were no further money-related speeches from him after the PGA Tour and LIV established their framework agreement on June 6th. Even though it didn’t seem like he was getting ready to leave anytime soon, there was a discernible change in his demeanor that indicated he had no desire to be at the heart of any controversy. This is best exemplified by an instance in July when someone asked him if players who came back from LIV would face penalties – instead of engaging with this hypothetical scenario however; he stayed quiet yet again.

He remarked that he comprehends why some players on the PGA Tour wouldn’t welcome their return, and likewise understands those who desire to participate again. He acknowledged several excellent tournaments and golf courses many individuals would relish playing once more but suggested imposing retribution for their past actions; however, he isn’t familiar with what penalty should be appropriate since it’s not his role as a golfer but rather falls under the jurisdiction of disciplinary committees and other personnel whose responsibility is to deal with this matter. As far as hitting balls goes, that’s where his expertise lies – striving to perform at his utmost potential.

During this time, it’s worth mentioning that Rahm made the decision to no longer participate in the Player Advisory Council. Additionally, despite initially agreeing to play in Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy’s new TGL simulator league during autumn, he withdrew from participating due to insufficient availability. However, even after LIV Golf was introduced into the equation earlier on, he persisted with his stance of not joining until August when his tone seemed nearly as definite as it had been a year prior.

In September of 2023, speculation emerged regarding Jon Rahm’s potential move to LIV. By the start of 2024, he facilitated Tyrrell Hatton’s transition from his European team to join him in the budding league.

During an interview with the Spanish-language podcast Golf Sin Etiquetas, he expressed amusement at rumors linking him to LIV Golf. He admitted that he was never fond of its format and preferred practicing with Phil Mickelson and Sergio Garcia during major tournaments where they have a great time together. According to him, Mickelson understands his decision not to join LIV Golf, which is reciprocated on his part as well since their friendship goes beyond business matters. Moreover, Mickelson has reassured him multiple times that there is no need for him to sign up for LIV’s team.

Era III saw an unexpected shift.

The occurrence was swift; gossip circulated for a week until Rahm’s departure.

Rahm expressed his pride in joining LIV Golf and becoming a part of its novel endeavor to stimulate the growth of the sport, during his introductory press conference held in December. He confidently affirmed that this promising opportunity for him and his family fills him with much excitement towards what lies ahead.

During the press conference, he covered a broad range of topics. However, one remark that stood out was his acknowledgement – particularly in light of his prior statements – that money did indeed play a role. (Speculation has varied widely from $300 million to as much as $600 million.)

He stated that the pay was excellent and delightful, but reiterated his past statement. He doesn’t participate in golf solely for financial gain; instead, he has a passion for the game itself. As someone who is committed to being a good husband, father and family provider, it’s his responsibility to provide them with top-notch resources and opportunities.

Although he referred to himself as “ambitious” and not “greedy,” the biggest obstacle in signing on was his future with the Ryder Cup. He claimed that any consequences would be acceptable if he had the backing of those closest to him, but it’s worth noting that his perspective on format underwent a significant transformation.

“The absolute key,” he stated, “is the team aspect. Being a football enthusiast in Spain, teams take precedence. I have been a part of both the Spanish national team and ASU for several years now and throughout most of my career, I’ve had the pleasure of being on a golf team. This opportunity has rekindled many emotions within me as building up four strong players to become one unified force is truly beautiful – something that isn’t often experienced in this sport; it’s actually one of my main sources of motivation.”

During a video podcast appearance in February 2024, Rahm revisited the topic of money and alluded to his renowned quotes from June 2022.

For me to consider a change, there had to be reasons that went beyond just financial gain. When I made that statement, it was heartfelt and sincere. However, when presented with a significant amount of money upfront, my perspective did shift somewhat. While I try not to place undue importance on material possessions in life overall, taking care of my family and helping them succeed is important to me now—especially since having children has changed things quite drastically for us all.

He mentioned that another factor was the agreement framework.

Upon the occurrence of that event, I was convinced that a union was forming. It signified something significant taking place and hence, it seemed prudent to listen to their proposals and comprehend their aspirations. Consequently, after reflecting on my situation, I decided to give them an audience upon cessation of the season.”

While McIlroy’s transformation was gradual and ongoing, Rahm’s occurred more rapidly and seems to have already reached its completion. Despite the unpredictability of the golf world, he faced less backlash than other defectors due in part to the subsequent agreement that eliminated some PGA Tour sympathy. Additionally, McIlroy has publicly endorsed Rahm while advocating for his inclusion in future Ryder Cup events. The next step is observing how Rahm thrives outside of the PGA Tour alongside any potential reconciliation between LIV and their organization. Moreover, only time will reveal if Augusta offers clues regarding which direction his career may take moving forward.