As he prepares to potentially make his seventh Ryder Cup appearance of his career in 2025, Justin Rose has discussed the prospect of LIV Golf stars taking part in the illustrious event.
Team Europe stalwart Justin Rose has welcomed the involvement of LIV Golf defectors taking part in the next Ryder Cup as he sets his sights on qualification for the legendary event.
Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton both played in the tournament in Rome in 2023 before making the switch to the Saudi Arabian circuit at the start of this calendar year. The pair both remain part of the DP World Tour, with fines issued to the pair if they play on breakaway tour.
However, this does mean that they can still take part in events on the European tour – leaving them open to qualifying for the Ryder Cup in the process. Alternatively, players in Rahm and Hatton’s position are also eligible for selection, as it was confirmed by DP World Tour chief Guy Kinnings in April that there would be no changes in the regulations.
Now, British star Rose has spoken about the prospect of LIV stars representing Europe at Bethpage Black Course next year. He told Sky Sports : “Obviously, you want the best players representing Europe, no matter where they play. If you’re European and a great player, you should have the opportunity to represent Europe.
“Most players do, the guys on LIV do get the opportunity to represent Europe. It think there is a structure in place, the European Tour has its rules and regulations, if they play in a conflicting event, they accrue a fine and if they pay the fine, they’re eligible to play. So I think there is a fair pathway for everybody to be part of the team.
As for the current situation concerning the plans for a merger between the PGA Tour, LIV Golf and the DP World Tour, the one-time major victor is keeping an open mind. He admitted: “We’re all kind of used to the new normal, I still don’t think no one has shed any light on what the future looks like.
“I am not entirely sure how this merger will unfold, so currently everyone is deciding individually what is best for them and should focus on their own business.
There are many opportunities to play golf globally.” We also want to maintain the quality of the product as we want to witness top players competing against each other on Sunday evenings. That’s the essence of it.
Rose is committed to earning a spot on Team Europe for the upcoming Ryder Cup through merit. He expressed his excitement about the process, stating that once the points start accumulating, he shifts his focus towards qualifying. He understands the importance of being proactive and ensuring his place on the team.
Rose has never been concerned about qualifying for the Ryder Cup in the past. “This recent selection was the first time I have ever been chosen, so maybe I should focus on earning my spot.
If I continue to play well leading up to the Ryder Cup, I believe I have a chance to be on the team based on my performance, but I prefer to qualify based on my own merit this time.”