Big money move by the 29-year-old Masters champion to Saudi-backed LIV Golf sends another shockwave through the sport.
Masters champion Jon Rahm has made the surprising decision to join Saudi-funded LIV Golf for a contract that is believed to exceed the entire prize fund of the PGA Tour. This unexpected move has deepened the division in the sport as commercial negotiations were ongoing between the PGA Tour and Saudi-funded LIV Golf.
Rahm confirmed his decision to move to LIV Golf in an interview with Fox News, where he was seen wearing a black letterman’s jacket with the LIV logo. Acknowledging that it was a difficult decision, Rahm expressed his excitement about the appealing prospects offered by LIV Golf.
While keeping the financial details private, reports suggest that Rahm’s deal could be valued at around $500 million, potentially including equity in his new team. This amount significantly surpasses the PGA Tour’s total purse in 2023, which was approximately $460 million.
Rahm’s move comes just 25 days before the deadline for the PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund to finalize their commercial partnership along with the European Tour. The sudden defection of the 29-year-old Rahm, currently the number three player in the world and a two-time major champion, has been regarded as the most significant development in the ongoing negotiations.
Despite previously expressing his disinterest in joining LIV Golf, Rahm mentioned that the offer was too good to refuse. He emphasized that while money played a role, his decision was also motivated by a desire to provide the best opportunities and resources for his family.
Rahm’s debut in the LIV Golf league will be at the season opening event scheduled from February 2-4 at LIV Golf Mayakoba in Mexico. His eligibility for future majors is also subject to further evaluation following this move.
With Rahm’s inclusion, LIV Golf has now added seven of the last 14 major winners to its roster, further solidifying its position in the sport.