Tour winner ‘won’t follow’ Jon Rahm progress after LIV move

Jon Rahm’s move to LIV Golf has caused quite the stir in the professional game and has even disappointed his biggest fan.

The Spaniard signed a multi-year deal with the Saudi-backed circuit after weeks of speculation over a proposed deal.

Rahm said: “I am proud to join LIV Golf and be part of something new that is bringing growth to the sport.

“I have no doubt that this is a great opportunity for me and my family and am very excited for the future.”

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But DP World Tour winner Eddie Pepperell is far less buoyed by where Rahm will tee it up from now on.

The Englishman shared his disappointment in Rahm’s move, while sending a plea to the tours that they must be brought together.

Pepperell posted on X: “Nobody is a bigger Jon Rahm fan than me. I think he’s the best talent since Rory, and I believe he is smart, considered and thoughtful.

“Ultimately, as a fan of traditional golf, I’m gutted he’s gone to LIV. That being said, I certainly won’t follow his progress on LIV.

“This signing, in my opinion, should be the biggest shock yet to the PGA Tour. They have an opportunity to think outside the box and create something truly global in nature.

“Irrespective of LIV, there is still plentiful talent playing on the PGAT/DPWT whereby if they look to expand their vision and create a truly global tour, one that both encourages participation from global players and one that travels to all corners of the world performing, then I still believe it can create something far more valuable than LIV ever will.

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“This is as much a plea as anything else to the powers that be to now look at a full consolidation, bring it all (PGAT/DPWT) together and create something different.

“We need open minds and top US based players (especially) to embrace this opportunity.”

Rahm’s move, reported to be worth over $500 million to the 29-year-old, has raised more questions about the proposed deal between the PGA Tour and Public Investment Fund (PIF).

Meanwhile, the signing also throws Rahm’s Ryder Cup future under jeopardy.

With current LIV golfers Sergio Garcia, Lee Westwood and Ian Poulter ineligible to play in the match, Rory McIlroy has called upon changes.

McIlroy said: “Because of this decision, the European tour is going to have to rewrite the rules for Ryder Cup eligibility.

“There’s absolutely no question about that – I certainly want Jon Rahm on the next Ryder Cup team.”

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.