Jon Rahm decided not to play in the DP World Tour Championship this week.
Because of Rahm and Ludvig Aberg’s absence, players ranked 51st and 52nd got a chance to join the tournament at Jumeirah Golf Estates. Aberg had knee surgery in September, so he’s skipping Dubai but might play next week at the RSM Classic, where he’s the defending champion. He’s also planning for next month’s Hero World Challenge.
Rahm isn’t hurt; he just became a dad again and wants to be with his family. The $18 million LIV Golf champ played four events quickly this fall, including the Olympics, to keep his tour membership active for next year’s Ryder Cup. His wife Kelley gave birth to their daughter Alaia Cahill Rahm in late September after what Jon called a challenging pregnancy .
Golf Stars Gather in Dubai:
While Rahm stays home, Tyrrell Hatton is ready to compete in Dubai alongside Joaquin Niemann and Adrian Meronk from LIV Golf. Rory McIlroy looks set to win his sixth Race to Dubai title unless Thriston Lawrence can surpass him. Fans might wonder if McIlroy will hold onto his lead or face an upset.
Rahm’s year has been impressive as a new LIV Golf player, winning both UK and Chicago events and claiming the $18 million individual title. Despite missing Nashville due to injury and not adding another Major win this year, he still finished strong in all completed tournaments. He came close at The Open with a T7 finish and narrowly missed medals at Paris 2024 by two strokes.
No one knows when or where Rahm will play next; possibilities include December’s Saudi International on the Asian Tour or January’s Dubai Desert Classic on the DP World Tour. The 2025 LIV Golf season kicks off with its first event in Riyadh come February.
What do you think about Rahm’s decision?
