Jon Rahm made it to the Open de Espana just in time.
Cleared by the DP World Tour, he faced illness and welcomed his third child before playing at Club de Campo Villa de Madrid. His wife Kelley gave birth to their first daughter right before the tournament, and Rahm had missed the LIV Golf Team Championship due to flu-like symptoms last week.
When he also withdrew from Wednesday’s Pro-Am in Spain, many feared he’d miss the Open de Espana. But he’s now set to compete, aiming for his fourth national title and surpassing Seve Ballesteros.
“I’m very happy with how well everything turned out,” Rahm told the Irish Times. “Being able to bring the little one home and for the kids to meet her.” He added that missing such a moment would have been sad but was grateful both mother and baby are healthy.
Rahm’s Journey and Challenges:
As a two-time Major champion, Rahm is favored in Madrid, having won two of his three titles on this course. This tournament holds special meaning for him. At 29, he can only play after appealing against fines and suspensions from the DP World Tour for participating in LIV Golf events.
Fans might think it’s great news that he’s back on track despite all odds.
Rahm has no plans to pay those fines but continues negotiating while playing enough events to keep his card. Keeping his DP World Tour membership is crucial if he wants to be part of the Ryder Cup team. Captain Luke Donald has made it clear: rules won’t change even for top players like Rahm.
The Olympics count as one of four required events; thus, Open de Espana marks his second event before aiming for Alfred Dunhill Links Championship and Andalucia Masters next.
Joining him in Spain are Tyrrell Hatton and several LIV Golfers like Patrick Reed, David Puig, and Eugenio Chacarra.
What do you think about Rahm’s chances?
