Jon Rahm claims PGA Tour ‘generated division’ with LIV Golf

Masters champion Jon Rahm has accused the PGA Tour of ‘generating division’ before cohering with the Saudi-backed LIV Golf league.

The 28-year-old also laughed off rumours he could make the switch to Greg Norman’s breakaway circuit.

Speaking on the Golf Sin Etiquetas podcast, Rahm hit out at the PGA Tour for their handling of the ‘commercial merger’.

He said: “Two minutes before the announcement came out, someone from the PGA Tour contacted me and told me everything. I thought it was a joke.

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“And this is what they should have done from the beginning. Instead, they generated division and then decided to come together again.

“I hope they reach an agreement. I think LIV will continue, from what I understand when I talked to their players, none of them intend to return to the PGA Tour. They left for a reason.”

A ‘framework agreement’ was reached between the once bitter rivals in June after a year-long quarrel.

Jay Monahan, the PGA Tour’s commissioner, was adamant his established tour would not see eye-to-eye with LIV Golf before a shock truce was made.

Players who initially made the jump were banned from playing on the PGA Tour, but now appear to have a way back in, as the entities attempt to unite.

Rumours have been in constant supply surrounding those who have remained loyal to Monahan’s tour, and the Spaniard is the latest to be questioned on it.

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However, Rahm brushed it aside swiftly, disregarding the format of the 54-hole no-cut events with eye-watering purses.

He said: “I laugh when people rumour me with LIV Golf. I’ve never liked the format. And I always have a good time with Phil and Sergio in the practice rounds of majors.”

Despite the uncertain nature of relationships following the lengthy dispute, the former world number one has not lost respect for certain LIV rebels.

Jon Rahm added: “Phil Mickelson respects my decision and I respect his decision.”

“He has told me that I have no reason to go to LIV. And he has told me that several times.”

John Turnbull A graduate of the University of Stirling, John joined the bunkered team in 2023 as a Content Producer, with a responsibility for covering all breaking news, tour news, grassroots content and much more besides. A keen golfer, he plays the majority of his golf at Falkirk Golf Club. Top of his 'bucket list' is a round of Pebble Beach... ideally in the company of Gareth Bale.