By Salma El-Sakka
Jon Rahm has explained his decision to turn down a contract with the relaunched LIV Golf 2.0, saying he “wasn’t thrilled” with the direction of the new venture. The two-time major winner and former world number one will instead return to the DP World Tour, starting with this week’s Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship at Yas Links.
Rahm criticizes LIV Golf 2.0 direction
LIV Golf is attempting a relaunch next year with funding from BC Partners Capital after Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund withdrew its $5 billion investment. The league filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, voiding existing player contracts so they could be re-signed under new terms. Rahm’s release required him to relinquish claims against the bankruptcy estate, reported to be worth up to $150 million, though he retained control of his Legion XIII team’s intellectual property.
Speaking at a press conference, Rahm said he liked the original LIV concept but was unimpressed by the 2.0 proposals. “There were too many unknowns... it seemed like it was going a bit away from team golf,” he said. “It just kind of became more of a regular tournament. It wasn’t really ever much of a consideration.”
PGA Tour return remains uncertain
Rahm, 31, is unsure whether he can follow Brooks Koepka back to the PGA Tour. Koepka returned under specific circumstances, including a one-year suspension, financial restrictions and a $5 million charitable donation. Rahm said he would accept the same penalties if offered, but doubts he will receive an identical deal. “If I have to fulfil a one-year suspension, I think it’s a pretty good position to be that a worst-case scenario I get to play on a wonderful tour (DP World Tour) for a whole year,” he added.
Personal break and return to competition
Rahm missed the Open de España for the first time in his career as his wife Kelley was expecting their daughter, Begona. After spending time at home in Phoenix, he acknowledged feeling rusty after a long flight to Abu Dhabi. He currently sits 51st in the Race to Dubai rankings.
