What does Jon Rahm’s move to Saudi-funded LIV Golf mean for PGA Tour merger?
The star golfer’s move could spur the PGA Tour to move faster in the merger talks with its Saudi-backed rival ahead of the Dec. 31 deadline.
Spanish golfer Jon Rahm confirmed on Thursday evening that he is joining the Saudi-funded LIV Golf, a major shakeup in the golf world that strengthens the league’s position ahead of the looming deadline to merge with the rival PGA Tour.
Rahm announced in a photo post on the X platform alongside LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman that he is “proud” to join LIV, describing the league as “something new that is bringing growth to the sport.”
I am proud to join @livgolf_league 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. pic.twitter.com/myf4isJgJ3
— Jon Rahm Rodriguez (@JonRahmOfficial) December 7, 2023
Rahm’s deal to join LIV is worth approximately $500 million, according to reports.
LIV Golf, backed by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, launched last year as a competitor to the PGA Tour. LIV has lured away many of golf’s top stars like Brooks Koepka and Phil Mickelson with contracts reportedly worth hundreds of millions of dollars. LIV Golf has been criticized by some observers over Saudi Arabia’s human rights record, as well as Riyadh's alleged involvement in the 9/11 attacks.
