Jon Rahm’s “thankful” LIV Golf comments explain proposed £475million PGA Tour exit

A reported £475 million contract is on the table for John Rahm, one of the biggest names in European sports, who may soon depart from the PGA Tour to play for LIV Golf.

Despite ongoing concerns about his PGA Tour future, Jon Rahm has expressed his admiration for LIV Golf in the past.

Rahm, 29, is thought to be in talks with LIV Golf chiefs about a potential move from the PGA Tour. Nothing has been agreed between the Masters champion and the Saudi-backed circuit yet, but rumours suggest he could pocket a £475million pay day.

Rory McIlroy and other notable stars have slammed LIV Golf in the past, while the likes of Ian Poulter and Phil Mickelson have joined the controversial tour. Yet Rahm, who won the US Open at Torrey Pines in 2021, has sat on the fence for much LIV Golf’s existence.

Rahm has previously stated his desire to continue playing in the biggest tournaments – such as the majors – but can also understand why some of the sport’s biggest names have joined LIV Golf. He even said PGA Tour players such be “thankful” of LIV Golf last year.

The PGA Tour, which has since entered its own partnership with the Saudis, persuaded some its most popular stars to snub LIV Golf by amending its schedule and increasing prize purses. “I think on this side we be thankful that LIV happened,” said Rahm last December.

“I don’t know if those changes would have happened if LIV wasn’t in the picture. So to an extent, yeah, we should be thankful… I don’t think it (2022, when LIV Golf was launched) was a bad year for golf. Yes, there’s certain division, but I think we’re moving forward.

“Like I said, on this side a lot of the changes we owe to the appearance of LIV. I don’t think it’s a bad thing. I just hope the negative, let’s say, feel that this whole thing has, right, the animosity goes away… LIV can do their thing and the PGA Tour can do their thing.”

Rahm has additionally recently conceded that he would be able “see the allure that others see towards LIV Golf”. However he’s scrutinized the 54-opening configuration. “Shotgun three days to me isn’t a golf competition, no cut,” the Spaniard has conceded. “It’s just basic.”

It is not yet clear whether Rahm will dive in and join LIV Golf. As per Bunkered, he’s been in chats with the circuit fronted by Greg Norman. A source has told golf outlet that Rahm is “nearer to joining than he has been previously”.

Rahm has previously pulled out of the TGL, the new contest framed by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy in association with the PGA Visit. The double cross significant champ’s choice to pull out from the TGL has just expanded hypothesis over his future.