Reigning Masters champion Jon Rahm has officially announced his decision to join LIV Golf, a move that has been the subject of speculation for weeks. The Spanish world number three is set to leave the PGA Tour, signing a deal with LIV Golf in a reported agreement worth between $300 million and $600 million. Rahm’s decision makes him one of the biggest stars to join LIV Golf, the Saudi Arabia-backed circuit that has disrupted the golfing world in recent years.
The announcement comes amid ongoing efforts to finalize the merger between the PGA Tour and the Saudi-backed LIV Golf, with a December 31 deadline set for agreement on a framework for the new PGA-LIV joint venture.
Rahm’s move to LIV is seen as a significant development, as he was previously considered one of the staunch PGA loyalists. While LIV successfully recruited other major winners, Rahm had expressed his commitment to the PGA Tour and criticized LIV’s format. However, his decision to join LIV suggests a potential shift in the landscape of professional golf.
In a statement, LIV Golf Chief Operating Officer Lawrence Burian emphasized the league’s commitment to growth and stated, “LIV Golf is here to stay. The addition of Jon reemphasizes that our League is not slowing down. We are continuing to invest and build aggressively for LIV’s long-term and exciting future.”
Rahm’s move is expected to have a significant impact on the evolving dynamics between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, and the golfing world will be closely watching how this decision shapes the future of professional golf.
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