Jon Rahm joins LIV Golf in deal reported to be worth £450 million - 'It’s a great deal'

LIV Golf has confirmed the signing of Masters champion Jon Rahm.

Rumours had circulated for some time with regard to the prospect of Rahm defecting from the PGA Tour.

The Saudi Arabian-funded LIV Golf teased the signing of new players in recent days, and confirmed on Thursday that Rahm had made the move.

“Things have changed a lot in the game of golf over the past two years, and I’ve seen the growth of LIV Golf and the innovation,” Rahm said after signing a deal with LIV. “That’s why I’m here today."

It is being reported that Rahm has put his name to a deal worth £450 million, a few months after saying $400m would not change his lifestyle when reports of a move to LIV emerged in the summer.

Rahm has said there were many factors behind the decision, but that the package was attractive.

He said: “This decision was made for many reasons and what I thought was best for me.

“Don’t get me wrong, it’s a great deal.”

Taking to social media, Rahm added: “I am proud to join LIV Golf and be part of something new that is bringing growth to the sport.

"I have no doubt that this is a great opportunity for me and my family and am very excited for the future.”

As the winner of the Masters earlier this year, Rahm’s position in the majors is secure for the foreseeable future - meaning a switch to LIV would not hinder his hopes of adding to his major tally.

Questions will remain over his eligibility for the Ryder Cup after the likes of Sergio Garcia and Lee Westwood were overlooked for European selection after their moves to LIV.

But the next Ryder Cup is not until 2025, and there are likely to be more charges at the top of world golf over the next couple of years.

Rahm’s departure is a major blow to the PGA Tour, but a huge boost to LIV which will hope the Spaniard is in the field for the season opener at Mayakoba in February

- - -

TNT Sports presents the premium live sports rights previously carried by BT Sport including the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Conference League, Gallagher Premiership Rugby, Investec Champions Cup, EPCR Challenge Cup, MotoGP, Cricket, UFC, Boxing, NBA and WWE. The streaming home for TNT Sports in the UK is discovery+, where fans can enjoy a subscription that includes TNT Sports, Eurosport and entertainment in one destination. You can also watch TNT Sports through BT, EE, Sky, and Virgin Media.