The 2022 U.S Open is set to begin on Thursday, where it will be the first event where both LIV Golf and PGA Tour golfers play together for the first time since LIV Golf’s inaugural event last week.
PGA Tour golfer Jon Rahm has long been considered one of the best golfers in the world, and he discussed his stance on players that have left the PGA Tour in favor of LIV Golf.
“I do see the appeal that everybody sees towards LIV Golf,” said Rahm. “I see some of the points and arguments that you can make on why they are preferred. To be honest, part of the format is not appealing to me. Shotgun, three days, to me is not a golf tournament- no cut. It’s just that simple. I want to play against the best in the world and a format that’s been going on for hundreds of years. That’s what I want to see.”
🗣️ "My heart is with the PGA Tour"
Jon Rahm says that he can understand the allure of joining the LIV Golf Series, however, he says the competition format doesn't appeal to him. pic.twitter.com/Euq1JMBXzc
— Sky Sports Golf (@SkySportsGolf) June 14, 2022
Rahm also added that while some decided to join LIV for the money, he is more interested in the legacy and the format of the PGA Tour that he feels cannot be matched.
“Yeah, money is great… Would our lifestyle change if I got $400 million? No. It would not change one bit. Truth be told, I could retire right now with what I made and I’d live a very happy life and not play golf again. I’ve never really played the game of golf for monetary reasons. I play for the love of the game and I want to play against the best in the world.”
Rahm finished by saying that his “heart is with the PGA Tour” so that seemingly ended any doubt about his commitment.
His comments about the format of LIV Golf are certainly eye-opening. As a fan, it is an interesting aspect to see if a player will make the cut in a PGA Tour cut event, which LIV will not have with their tournaments.
LIV’s brand is all about speeding up the game, which is something that has been an issue in the PGA Tour. However, the shotgun format may turn off potential big-name players from joining the league, and it looks like Rahm is not a fan.
