Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 10, 2024 11:11 pm GMT
Spanish golfer Jon Rahm has taken significant steps to preserve his eligibility for the Ryder Cup amid ongoing disputes with the DP World Tour over fines linked to his participation in LIV Golf events. On Thursday, Rahm lodged an appeal against the fines that could potentially prevent him from competing for Team Europe in the prestigious tournament next year.
Rahm’s Impending Ryder Cup Participation at Risk
Rahm, a two-time major winner, initially declared his refusal to pay the penalties imposed on him for not being released to play in LIV Golf tournaments that conflicted with the DP World Tour calendar. This decision raised concerns about whether Europe would field one of its star players in the upcoming Ryder Cup, which is scheduled to take place in New York in 2025.
To be part of Team Europe, Rahm must demonstrate active membership in the DP World Tour. This requirement mandates him to participate in three additional events before the season concludes with the Tour Championship in Dubai, set for November 17. The recent fines threatened to derail this participation, putting significant pressure on Rahm’s Ryder Cup aspirations.
Deadline to Appeal
Rahm faced a tight deadline to contest the sanctions issued by the DP World Tour. He had until midday BST (7 a.m. ET) to file his appeal to be eligible for the upcoming Spanish Open scheduled for September 26. Just hours before the cut-off, he successfully lodged his appeal. A DP World Tour spokesperson confirmed that due to the pending appeal, Rahm is eligible to compete in the Spanish Open.
This instance mirrors the experience of fellow LIV Golf participant and previous Ryder Cup teammate Tyrrell Hatton, who also appealed sanctions to facilitate his participation in other DP World Tour events.
Rahm’s Tournament Aspirations
Ahead of LIV Golf’s regular-season finale in Chicago, Rahm expressed his determination to play in his home tournament. Speaking to reporters, he stated, “I’m entered into the tournament … Whether they let me play or not is a different thing.” Rahm has made it clear that he is not in favor of the fines, stating, “I don’t intend to pay the fines, and we keep trying to have a discussion with them about how we can make this happen.”
In addition to the Spanish Open, Rahm hopes to participate in the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship and the Andalucía Masters in October. Successfully competing in these tournaments would satisfy the requirement of making four appearances on the DP World Tour this season to maintain his membership, alongside his participation in the Paris Olympics.
Challenges Ahead for Rahm
Despite his intentions, Rahm faces obstacles ahead. The schedule of LIV Golf’s Team Championship in Dallas will prevent him from competing in the BMW PGA Championship, which further complicates his plans. Currently, Rahm stands at 118th in the DP World Tour’s Race to Dubai rankings, falling short of the top-50 placement required to qualify for the two season-ending playoff events in the United Arab Emirates.
This scenario leaves Rahm with limited opportunities this season, as he may only be able to compete in the French Open and the Genesis Invitational in South Korea to fulfill his membership obligations.
Support from Teammates
Shane Lowry, who has partnered with Rahm in two Ryder Cups, expressed his support for the Spanish golfer while acknowledging the complexities of the situation. “Do I want Jon Rahm on the Ryder Cup Team? Yes. Should there be exemptions made? I’m not sure,” Lowry remarked. He highlighted Rahm’s prowess, stating, “Rahmbo in the Ryder Cup is an absolute animal. I’ve seen him in two Ryder Cups and he’s unbelievable.”
Lowry’s comments underscore the consensus among players that Rahm’s presence in the Ryder Cup would be a significant advantage for Team Europe, although he refrained from speculating on the decision-making process regarding exemptions.
Looking Ahead
Jon Rahm’s ongoing appeal with the DP World Tour is a pivotal moment in his career as he balances between his commitments in LIV Golf and his aspirations to secure a spot in the Ryder Cup. As the timeline for resolving the fines approaches, Rahm’s determination to compete in upcoming tournaments remains evident.
The result of this appeal could change a lot for Rahm and for professional golf as a whole. The divide between the traditional tours and LIV Golf is affecting players and events. With the Spanish Open coming up soon, fans and other players will be paying close attention to see what happens. Everyone is curious to find out if Rahm will be able to join his team for the Ryder Cup in the next few years.
