Jon Rahm wants to keep playing in the Ryder Cup but isn’t sure if he’ll be allowed.
He’s planning to join the Open de Espana, Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, and Andalucia Masters. However, he doesn’t want to pay fines for participating in LIV events that clash with DP World Tour schedules.
Rahm is talking with the tour officials, saying it would be unfair to Spanish golf if he’s not allowed to play. The DP World Tour currently says he’s “ineligible” due to “outstanding sanctions.”
Rahm’s Stand on Fines:
“I intend to play in Spain,” Rahm said. He mentioned entering the tournament a long time ago but isn’t sure if they’ll let him participate. He’s against paying fines and is trying to find a solution through discussions. Rahm emphasized his commitment to Spanish golf and his desire to compete at Sotogrande.
Fans might think it’s unfair if Rahm can’t play despite his dedication.
He also expressed interest in playing the Dunhill because of a friend’s request and admiration for Joe’s contributions to golf. His plan includes participating in Madrid, then heading to Open España, followed by Dunhill, taking a week off before Sotogrande.
A spokesperson from DP World Tour stated: “Jon has outstanding sanctions for breaches of the DP World Tour’s conflicting tournament regulation. Until those outstanding sanctions are resolved, he is ineligible to play in a DP World Tour event.”
To stay eligible for the Ryder Cup, European players must be members of the DP World Tour and participate in at least four events per season (one being in their home country) or six otherwise. Fortunately for Rahm, the Olympics count as one event; thus he only needs three more before mid-November—Spanish Open, Dunhill Links, and Andalucia Masters will suffice.
These tournaments offer Ryder Cup points along with next year’s four Majors, giving Rahm an opportunity for automatic qualification. If not, European captain Luke Donald would likely give him a wildcard pick.
Donald recently told BBC Sport there won’t be special rule changes just for one person and confirmed that Rahm knows what’s required.
Tyrrell Hatton faces similar issues with an ongoing appeal over fines after playing in British Masters. A spokesperson noted: “Tyrrell has a pending appeal against sanctions imposed on him for breaching the DP World Tour’s Conflicting Tournament Regulation and according to our regulations, he can participate in Betfred British Masters.”
For Rahm’s membership fulfillment, he must either pay fines or appeal like Hatton. Whether he’ll tee up remains uncertain as Spanish Open starts on September 26th.
What do you think about this situation?
