Jon Rahm hints at LIV Golf regret after PGA Tour event admission
Despite his mega-money move to the LIV Golf setup for 2024, Jon Rahm concedes that he misses competing in some PGA Tour events as acknowledged by the Legion XIII captain.
After joining LIV Golf for the upcoming 2024 season, Jon Rahm has confessed to missing five specific PGA Tour events that he used to compete in. His move broke records within the golfing community.
In December of last year, Rahm became the prominent acquisition for LIV after signing a contract valued at around £450 million. By doing so, this two-time major victor forfeited his playing privileges on the PGA Tour and joined fellow players like Phil Mickelson who were prohibited from competing in American-based circuits.
Competing on the PGA Tour, the Spaniard proved himself to be among the finest talents of his era. He claimed a total of 11 titles throughout his time on tour, an impressive achievement that included winning four titles over just four months in 2023.
However, after a year has passed, the 29-year-old’s loyalty now belongs to the LIV arrangement that prevented him from defending three of his previous season’s titles. He expresses interest in making a comeback at two specific events he won before – Genesis Invitational and American Express- as well as competing again in Waste Management Phoenix Open, Farmers Insurance Open, and Players Championship.
“I currently have my sights set on playing 14 LIV events,” he expressed before his debut at LIV Adelaide this week. “In addition, I am aiming to participate in majors and the Ryder Cup. Afterwards, if it doesn’t overlap with my planned LIV schedule, there are certain PGA Tour events that I would be thrilled to compete in.”
“I’ve reiterated this quite a few times and I’ll repeat it once more- Palm Springs [American Express], Torrey Pines [Farmers Insurance Open], Phoenix [WM Phoenix Open], LA[Genesis Invitational] and if permitted to participate, the Players Championship – these are tournaments that hold great appeal for me.”
Of course, Rahm’s plans hinge on the PGA Tour and Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia (PIF) resolving their differences through a peace agreement soon. In June last year, an unexpected framework agreement was announced between these two competitors that could potentially put an end to the ongoing conflict between the Tour and LIV.
However, after ten months have passed, both parties still haven’t come to a finalized resolution. Rahm’s move to Saudi Arabia was largely influenced by the announcement of a proposed agreement between competing tours. According to Rahm, “The PGA Tour and LIV agreement allowed for some progress.”
Upon experiencing that, I immediately recognized the sense of unity between us. It was apparent that a shift was occurring, thus prompting me to consider giving their proposition and perspective some thought. Out of self-respect and curiosity for what they had in mind, listening to them became necessary post-season.
Regarding the ambiguous future of professional golf, he expressed a desire for resolution. He reiterated his belief that there is potential to elevate golf in the international market and create an improved product accessible to all. Ultimately, this could lead to greater recognition of golf as a worldwide sport overall.
