Jon Rahm’s LIV Golf Season: Success or Failure?

Jon Rahm, one of LIV Golf’s most high-profile offseason signees, clinched his first victory of the season in the U.K. this past Sunday. Despite this win, Rahm finds himself second in the points standings, trailing Joaquin Niemann. With just one regular event and the LIV Golf individual championship left in the season, the pressure is mounting. Many believe that anything less than capturing the season title would render his 2024 campaign a disappointment.

**Bob Harig: FACT**

Bob Harig argues that Rahm’s season would indeed be a failure without the overall title. His assessment hinges on Rahm’s subpar performances in the major championships. The highlight of Rahm’s season was a tie for seventh place at the British Open, a performance overshadowed by a disappointing Masters title defense, a missed cut at the PGA Championship, and a withdrawal from the U.S. Open. Despite showing strong form in LIV events, being in contention with just one win isn’t sufficient for a player of Rahm’s caliber and the fanfare surrounding his signing. For Rahig, the season will feel hollow if Rahm doesn’t win the overall title.

**John Pluym: FACT**

John Pluym echoes Harig’s sentiments, emphasizing the financial aspect. Rahm’s $300 million move to LIV Golf comes with high expectations. His underwhelming showings in the majors amplify the necessity for a season title to justify his hefty paycheck. In Pluym’s view, failing to secure the overall title, given the significant investment, would mark the season as a failure.

**Jeff Ritter: FICTION**

Jeff Ritter offers a different perspective, suggesting that Rahm’s season is already a disappointment, regardless of the LIV title outcome. Ritter points to Rahm’s performances in the major championships as the defining elements of his season. For him, Rahm’s lackluster major results overshadow any achievements in LIV Golf. Even a season title wouldn’t salvage what Ritter considers a dud of a season.

**John Schwarb: FACT**

John Schwarb supports the notion that failing to win the overall title would be a failure for Rahm and LIV Golf. Schwarb highlights the broader implications for the Saudi-backed league, noting that its star players must perform exceptionally to validate the league’s investment and attract attention. Rahm’s top 10 finishes aren’t enough to meet these expectations. For Schwarb, Rahm’s inability to dominate reflects poorly on both the player and the league.

**Conclusion**

Jon Rahm’s move to LIV Golf came with monumental expectations, driven by his impressive track record and the substantial financial incentives. While his recent win in the U.K. showcases his capabilities, opinions are divided on whether his season can be deemed successful without securing the overall title. For Harig, Pluym, and Schwarb, the absence of a season title would indeed mark 2024 as a failure for Rahm. On the other hand, Ritter believes the die has already been cast, and Rahm’s performances in the majors have irreparably marred his season. As the season nears its conclusion, all eyes will be on Rahm to see if he can meet the lofty expectations placed upon him and redeem what many view as an underwhelming year.