Jon Rahm rejects European tour compromise for LIV golfers. His Ryder Cup status now in question - AP News
AP News
February 21, 2026
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Jon Rahm has turned down a proposed compromise by the European Tour aimed at LIV Golf players, which could jeopardize his participation in future Ryder Cup events. The European Tour had offered conditional membership to golfers who switched to LIV Golf, but Rahm declined, opting instead to remain fully committed to the PGA Tour. This decision highlights the ongoing tensions between traditional tours and the controversial LIV Golf Series.
The offer from the European Tour was part of an effort to retain top players like Rahm who have joined LIV Golf, which is backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund. The compromise would have allowed these players to compete on both circuits under certain conditions, but Rahm's rejection signals his unwavering loyalty to the PGA Tour and its values. This stance could have significant implications for his career, potentially affecting his eligibility for team captaincies or playing opportunities in future Ryder Cup competitions.
Rahm's decision underscores the broader conflict within the golfing world over the rise of LIV Golf and its impact on traditional tours. The Ryder Cup, a prestigious team event between Europe and the United States, relies on the participation of top players. Rahm's potential absence could alter the dynamics of the competition and reduce its appeal to fans. This situation highlights the delicate balance
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Originally published on AP News on 2/21/2026