Rahm accuses DP World Tour of pressuring players
Jon Rahm has publicly argued that the DP World Tour is leveraging its influence over players, explaining why he isn’t among LIV Golf players who agreed to a settlement allowing participation in both tours’ events.
Last month, eight players were granted releases by the DP World Tour (formerly the European Tour) to compete in LIV Golf events this year. The deal lets them keep their membership and remain eligible for Ryder Cup selection, and includes agreements to settle about £2.5 million in fines for LIV appearances without the Tour’s permission, a withdrawal of all ongoing appeals, and commitments to play in a specified number of DP World Tour events.
Rahm, once world number one and a two-time major champion, said he would not sign under those terms, though he hinted that a middle ground might exist if the required number of DP World Tour events was reduced.
“I’m not sure what game they’re playing,” he said. “It feels like they’re leveraging our presence and impact in these events, fining us, and trying to benefit from what we bring to the table.” He suggested the approach pressures players who aren’t involved in the broader politics of the sport.
Rahm added: “I did propose, quite simply, lower it to four events—the minimum stated—and I’d sign tonight. They haven’t agreed to that. I’m not willing to play six events, and that isn’t what the rules require.”
The DP World Tour declined to comment when contacted by the BC.
