LIV Golf star’s awkward response over ‘competitiveness’ sparks heated PGA debate

Jon Rahm has reignited the debate over the competitiveness of LIV Golf versus the PGA Tour while reflecting on his challenging season since signing a £450 million deal with the Saudi-backed league.

The former world No. 1 and two-time major winner, having claimed victories at the 2021 US Open and the 2023 Masters, has struggled this year. Rahm controversially left the PGA Tour in December to join LIV Golf but has yet to secure a win in his new league. His performance in major tournaments has also been disappointing, finishing T45 at the Masters, missing the cut at the PGA Championship, and withdrawing from the US Open due to a foot infection.

Rating his season a six or seven out of 10 in a press conference ahead of LIV Golf Andalucia in Spain, Rahm faced questions about the competitiveness of LIV Golf. When asked if the format was less competitive, Rahm firmly responded, “No.” Pressed further on what might be missing, he explained, “It’s not easy to win golf tournaments. I’ve been close. I just haven’t got it done.”

His remarks sparked a renewed discussion among fans about the competitiveness of LIV Golf compared to the PGA Tour. Critics argued that LIV Golf is less competitive, with one fan stating, “It should be easy to win in LIV tournaments, Jon. Very few players there that would be competitive on the PGA.” Another added, “The answer is yes, LIV is less competitive by a mile.”

However, some defended LIV Golf, claiming it presents a tougher challenge. One supporter said, “Better golfers at LIV.” Another argued, “If anything @livgolf_league is harder to win… only three rounds… no more slacker Thursdays… come ready to play or hit the bricks!”

Others noted Rahm’s consistent performance despite his lack of wins, with one fan pointing out, “His team (Legion 13) has finished first, he finishes in the top five or 10 of nearly every LIV event, dealt with a foot injury, and the season isn’t over. His game is not in decline. Clue to the clueless, no one wins all the time. Golf has its cycles.”

Another suggested that a significant victory, such as at LIV Andalucia, The Open, or the Olympics, could redeem Rahm’s season, stating, “He has found out the standard on LIV higher than expected.”

Rahm’s struggle since joining LIV Golf has led to criticism, with pundit Eamon Lynch recently branding him a “competitive irrelevance” following his £450 million move. A major win could be what Rahm needs to silence his critics and prove his competitiveness in LIV Golf.