Jon Rahm’s decision to join LIV Golf has had a profound impact on the state of professional golf. The division between LIV and the PGA Tour has become more apparent, and those who deny this reality are simply ignoring the facts. Despite LIV’s unconventional format and lower ratings, it cannot be denied that they have attracted a talented pool of players, making them a formidable competitor to the PGA Tour. While loyal PGA Tour fans may refuse to acknowledge this, unbiased observers can see that the two sides are now on equal footing.
This realization is not limited to those on the outside looking in. Players on both LIV and the PGA Tour have also recognized this new reality. Since Rahm’s departure, the debate about whether LIV players should be allowed to participate in certain PGA Tour events has intensified. This increased scrutiny reflects a growing awareness of the equal playing field that now exists in the world of golf.
The question of whether defectors should be allowed to return to the PGA Tour has been a topic of discussion since LIV’s inception in June 2022. Initially, it was not given much attention, but Rahm’s departure has brought it back into the spotlight. Unsurprisingly, players have differing opinions on this matter.
Rory McIlroy, who initially believed that players who left the PGA Tour had harmed it irreparably and should face consequences, has since changed his stance. He now believes that if players are still eligible and wish to return, they should be allowed to do so without punishment. Justin Thomas and Rickie Fowler, on the other hand, disagree with McIlroy’s viewpoint. They feel that LIV players should not be easily welcomed back and that there should be some form of consequence for their decisions.
It is clear that LIV Golf is the PGA Tour’s only true rival. LIV’s ultimate goal is to surpass the PGA Tour and become the premier golf circuit in the world. In order to achieve this, they must weaken and undermine the PGA Tour. Allowing LIV players to return without consequences would only serve to further their agenda and harm the PGA Tour.
LIV players should not be given special treatment or allowed to switch sides whenever they please. They cannot fight under the LIV banner, earn millions of dollars, and then decide to rejoin the PGA Tour without facing any repercussions. Rahm’s desire to play in PGA Tour events again after just one start with LIV is a prime example of this. It is possible for multiple truths to exist simultaneously, and in this case, it is clear that LIV players should not be welcomed back without acknowledging the damage they have caused.
While the future of professional golf remains uncertain, one potential solution could be to limit the opportunities available to LIV defectors who wish to return to the PGA Tour. The recent partnership between the PGA Tour and Strategic Sports Group, which created the for-profit entity PGA Tour Enterprises, offers Tour players the chance to acquire equity. By barring LIV defectors from this opportunity, the PGA Tour can send a message that their actions have consequences.
Mark is a journalist who covers all major sports but has a particular focus on golf. He holds a journalism degree from the University of Tennessee, although he leaves it up to others to judge his expertise. When he’s not working, you’ll likely find him on the golf course.