Golf World Reacts to Jon Rahm Leaving the PGA Tour for LIV Golf

This move shocked the golf world on Thursday.

Jon Rahm shocked the golf world on Thursday when he made the news official that he is leaving the PGA Tour for LIV Golf.

Rahm is reported to be receiving a nine-figure paycheck for signing with LIV Golf, although he did not confirm any specific amount when asked. 

Rahm met with various media outlets on Thursday, including making the news official in a segment on Fox News. He noted that this was the best move for him and his family, adding that that the decision had nothing to do with the framework agreement that is being negotiated between the PGA Tour, DP World Tour and the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia (which funds LIV Golf).

The golf world’s reaction was split—while current LIV players were understandably excited to see Masters champion head to LIV Golf and join their ranks, many fans saw Rahm's move as a sad day in PGA Tour history. 

Some called Rahm out for seeming to step back on the comments he made previously about not appearing interested in LIV Golf because of its format.

Take a look at some of these reactions, including one from fellow LIV golfer Bryson DeChambeau.

Amazing to have @JonRahmpga join LIV. So happy for him and his family. Excited to compete with you once again my man and continue to play with the best players in the world.

— Bryson DeChambeau (@b_dechambeau) December 7, 2023

Jon Rahm just announced his move from the PGA Tour to LIV Golf live on Fox News.

He declined to answer the $$$ question but says he made the best decision for himself and his family.

“I hope all of my friends stay my friends”

Pretty surreal moment from the Masters champion. pic.twitter.com/8hnh1oeMLA

— Joe Pompliano (@JoePompliano) December 7, 2023

Brandel Chamblee on Jon Rahm:

"He sold his career out."

— Brentley Romine (@BrentleyGC) December 7, 2023

More valuable jacket acquired by Jon Rahm this year? pic.twitter.com/mhXZAA84Oi

— Brendan Porath (@BrendanPorath) December 8, 2023

Imagine trying to explain this to Arnold Palmer pic.twitter.com/y9IQc79ZbJ

— claire rogers (@kclairerogers) December 7, 2023

Might be time to change that handle @JonRahmpga https://t.co/lR4ZNLezly

— Fore Play (@ForePlayPod) December 7, 2023

This was simply painful to watch. One of the beautiful things about Jon Rahm, beyond his transcendent golf skills, has been his charisma and freedom with a microphone.

Tonight, we watched him become a talking-points robot on live TV. Tough scene. pic.twitter.com/xO9Qs2aBAC

— Jeff Eisenband (@JeffEisenband) December 7, 2023

Completely understand your decision #JonRahm, but… pic.twitter.com/c0zGQKIMUl

— Bryan Tweed (@BryanTweed16) December 7, 2023

The hypocrisy is next level @JonRahmpga

— Dane Tucker (@tuckercom) December 7, 2023

Incredible heel turn from Jon Rahm pic.twitter.com/jihyqciqf3

— Dan Riccio (@danriccio_) December 7, 2023