Jon Rahm in fresh talks with LIV officials to make a change: “I’m pushing for it”

Jon Rahm has revealed ongoing discussions with LIV Golf officials about adding a links event to their schedule a week before The Open Championship in 2025. The Spanish golfer believes this addition would be highly beneficial for players preparing for golf’s oldest major.

In an interview with GD’s Evin Priest, Rahm emphasized the advantages of playing a links course before The Open. “It’s undeniable how much it helps,” he stated, reflecting on his own experience at Royal Troon. Rahm had a challenging major season, finishing tied for 45th at The Masters, missing the cut at the PGA Championship, and being forced out of the U.S. Open due to a foot injury. Despite these setbacks, he managed to secure a tie for seventh at Royal Troon after battling the Scottish coast’s elements for four days.

Ahead of LIV’s event in the United Kingdom at JCB Golf & Country Club, Rahm expressed his enthusiasm for including a links course in the tour’s schedule. “I’m pushing for it,” he said. He highlighted the importance of adapting to links golf, particularly in terms of getting used to the greens and the ball’s behavior on the ground. “I didn’t think about it until after [Troon], but it’s undeniable how much it helps to play a links golf course the week before the Open.”

Rahm acknowledged the logistical challenges, noting that LIV management has existing contracts with some venues and plans for the future. However, he believes that collective support from other players could make a difference. “It’s not as easy as it sounds to just say, ‘Well, let’s do this.’ [But] it’d be something I would like to talk to other players [on LIV] about because that way, there’s strength in numbers if five, six or 10 solid players [all agree]. I think a lot of people might agree with it.”

Several potential venues come to mind, with Trump Turnberry being a notable option. Rahm also expressed a preference for Ireland, where he has always felt welcomed. “I’ve always felt really welcome in Ireland,” he said. “It feels like home and some of the most fun rounds of golf I’ve ever played are there and there are some great venues. So yeah, if there was an opportunity for LIV Golf to play in Ireland it would be absolutely fantastic.”

As LIV Golf United Kingdom gets underway on Friday, Rahm is yet to secure a win since joining the league last December. Currently, he is second to Joaquin Niemann in the individual standings.

The proposal for a pre-Open links event could significantly enhance players’ preparations and add an exciting dimension to the LIV Golf schedule. Rahm’s advocacy highlights his commitment to improving the competitive landscape and his passion for the unique challenges of links golf.