Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald has stated that he did not intervene to broker the peace deal between the DP World Tour and Jon Rahm, which allows the Spaniard to compete in the intercontinental golf tournament. Rahm risked being excluded from Europe's Ryder Cup defence in Ireland next year due to outstanding fines with the European Tour after he joined the rebel LIV Golf tour for a reported $400 million.
Rahm's Fines Settled
However, the Spaniard has now settled his fines, making him eligible for selection by captain Donald for the tournament at Adare Manor in 2027. Donald expressed his delight at the resolution, stating, "[I'm] delighted that a resolution has happened and that he's available as someone that can be a part of the Ryder Cup team." He clarified his role, saying, "I'm not involved in the policy of the DP World Tour and the discussions between the parties. I did talk to Jon. I just wanted to get his thoughts on where he was."
Donald's Support for Rahm
Donald highlighted Rahm's strong performances under his captaincy, noting, "He's played four and obviously two under my captaincy and done extremely well. So to have him available for selection is pretty cool." Rahm was seen at Bethpage Black with fellow LIV Golf player Tyrrell Hatton, both keen on participating in the next Ryder Cup between the USA and Europe.
When asked about potential bridges to rebuild with former teammates, Donald remarked, "I like to use the phrase 'Even brothers fight sometimes'. But deep down, they love each other and the mission is pretty clear when we play a Ryder Cup and that's to win."
LIV Golf's Future
Rahm's deal comes after LIV Golf's backers, the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund, confirmed that their funding of the rebel league would cease at the end of the 2026 season. Rahm remains one of the key players on the tour, alongside Americans like Bryson DeChambeau and former Open winner Cameron Smith.
