In a surprising turn of events, Jon Rahm, the prestigious Masters champion, has announced his decision to step back from public appearances until February, following his highly-publicized move to transition from the PGA Tour to the Saudi-backed LIV Golf. The golf community was taken aback when news of the big-money move broke, sending shockwaves across the globe.
Rahm, a 29-year-old Spaniard, made his first public appearance after signing with the rebel circuit funded by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) at an event in Bilbao, Spain. The golfer expressed his surprise at the presence of TV cameras, stating that he had anticipated a more intimate gathering. Despite the unexpected media attention, Rahm graciously received the ‘Dama Bilbaina 2023’ prize from the Sociedad Bilbaina Hall, a prestigious private club in his native Basque Country, in recognition of his outstanding sporting career.
During the event, Rahm candidly shared that he was under strict self-imposed instructions to refrain from public appearances, extending this restraint to interviews as well. He emphasized that he had taken this decision for his personal well-being and in acknowledgment of the significant shift he has triggered in the world of golf over the past week. He unequivocally stated that there would be no public engagements until February, abiding by the terms of his arrangement with LIV Golf.
As one of golf’s most beloved and charismatic personalities, Rahm’s switch to LIV Golf marks a significant milestone, making him the highest-profile figure to join the league since Australian golfer Cameron Smith’s recruitment following his victory at the 2022 Open Championship. With reports suggesting that Rahm stands to earn a staggering $US300 million and potentially up to $US600 million, the magnitude of his departure from the PGA Tour cannot be overstated.
This move is undoubtedly a significant setback for the PGA Tour, which has seen several of its top players defect to the breakaway league enticed by the promise of astronomical paydays. Rahm, however, has remained grounded amidst the turbulence, describing himself on Wednesday as a “normal person.” He humbly emphasized that he does not view his actions as markedly different or his significance as greater than that of others, despite his current visibility on television. In a lighthearted moment, he expressed his hope for a reduced media presence in the future.
The golfing world eagerly awaits Rahm’s return in February, and the anticipation for his debut with LIV Golf continues to mount. With his undeniable talent and magnetic persona, Rahm’s foray into this new chapter of his career is poised to leave an indelible mark on the sport.