Jon Rahm’s LIV Decision: A Two-Year Reflection
NEWTOWN SQUARE, Pa. — On a pivotal day, Jon Rahm admitted he hadn’t considered the long-term implications of his choices, leading to some unexpected outcomes.
Let’s take a step back to December 7, 2023, when Rahm announced he was leaving the PGA Tour for LIV Golf. At that moment, he was a two-time major champion and well-respected tour member, having openly questioned LIV’s sustainability and competitive level. Eight months after winning the Masters, he became the first PGA player to shift to LIV, following a framework agreement aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict.
After making his announcement, Rahm spoke with reporters, stating he hadn’t thought about the long-term effects of his decision. He suggested that meaningful reflections would come later.
Now, in May 2026, as the PGA Championship week unfolds, what has Rahm learned since joining LIV?
Once the flagship signing for LIV, the Spanish golfer now seems isolated, especially as the tour’s future looks uncertain. The Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund, which contributed billions to LIV—including $300 million for Rahm—has begun to withdraw its support. This shift leaves both the tour and its athletes confronting a stark new reality.
Last week, during a LIV press conference, Rahm expressed his continued belief in the league, hoping for new investors while acknowledging that he feels trapped due to his contract and noting the hard work ahead for CEO Scott O’Neill.
Rahm appears increasingly aware that his decision might not have aligned with what he envisioned for his career. Competing against Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler on a revitalized PGA Tour, bolstered by LIV’s influence, presents Rahm with competitive challenges he didn’t anticipate. With past stars like Brooks Koepka returning to the PGA, the LIV tour resembles little of what Rahm initially joined. Once, LIV held seven of the previous 14 majors; now, it stands at just one over the past two years.
