Schauffele Backs Rahm’s Exit But Doubts Tour’s Trust Repair
· Yahoo Sports
Xander Schauffele supports Jon Rahm’s choice to leave LIV Golf, calling it a smart move for the player himself. The two-time major winner says he understands the decision fully. However, Schauffele admits he has little trust left in the PGA Tour after recent events. This stance highlights the deep divide still present in professional golf. Rahm is seeking an immediate exit from the league after deeming new terms unacceptable.
On Saturday, following the third round of the Baycurrent Classic held in Japan, Schauffele addressed reporters. He addressed Rahm’s situation directly when asked about the Spaniard’s plan to quit LIV. “He’s clearly done whatever’s best for himself just like all of us,” Schauffele told reporters, according to GolfMagic. The comment cuts through the noise and places the focus on individual choice rather than league politics. Rahm’s lawyer, John Beck, confirmed that his team is in “advanced talks” to end the contract before November 15. The league filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy last month after Saudi funding vanished.
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Trust in the Tour is Broken
The bigger story here is not just where Rahm goes, but how players view the PGA Tour leadership. Schauffele has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with Commissioner Jay Monahan. He called for Monahan to step down after the framework agreement with the Public Investment Fund was announced in June 2023. The sentiment remains strong even as the tour tries to stabilize. “I would be lying if I said that I have a whole lot of trust after what happened,” Schauffele previously said. This lack of trust is a major hurdle for any future reconciliation with LIV players.
Many players are seeking an immediate exit from the league. Rahm is not the only one. Bryson DeChambeau and Cameron Smith also turned down offers to rejoin the PGA Tour through the returning-member programme. Last month, Brian Rolapp, who serves as chief executive, declared that there are no intentions to reopen that window. They will not talk to LIV players while they remain under contract. This rigid stance makes Rahm’s path forward very difficult. He is eligible for the Championship Series in 2028 due to his Masters win, but that is years away.
Where Does Rahm Go Next?
With the PGA Tour door seemingly closed, the DP World Tour emerges as the most logical destination. Schauffele suggested this route in his comments on Saturday. He noted the uncertainty surrounding any direct offer from the American circuit. “I don’t know if the Tour has offered him a spot like they had that window before,” Schauffele said. “He’s just doing whatever he thinks is best for himself.” This practical view aligns with the reality that the tour is unlikely to bend for a single player.
Rahm’s decision comes at a time when the league faces significant financial hurdles. BC Partners, an investment firm based in London, seeks to advance LIV independently from the Saudi fund. They have reportedly secured the possibility of $300 million in financing. But the future of the circuit hinges on commitments from its roster. Several players are seeking an immediate exit. Rahm’s departure could trigger a chain reaction if the terms for LIV 2.0 remain unpalatable to the rest of the field.
The Road Ahead for Schauffele
While the drama unfolds, Schauffele is focused on his own game in Japan. Finishing the third round with a 9-under overall tally, he recorded a 65, which is 6-under par. He is now four shots off the lead heading into the final day. The round was described as a mix of good and bad moments. “It was a weird day,” said Schauffele. Honestly, there was quite a bit of good, though some truly bad elements were present as well. If anyone had predicted I would shoot 65, I would likely accept that outcome, but overall. He faces a tough challenge to retain his title against Michael Brennan, Zach Bauchou, and Jacob Bridgeman, who lead the field at 13-under.