Jon Rahm and Joaquin Niemann are set to go head-to-head at LIV Golf’s Individual Championship in Chicago, and the Chilean has shared his thoughts on his closest rival.
The duo have been the standout performers in 2024. Rahm hasn’t finished outside the top ten and landed his first win at JCB in July.
Niemann’s hot start to the season, including two victories, saw him hold the top spot for much of 2024. However, Rahm now has the advantage as LIV’s finale nears at Bolingbrook.
Speaking ahead of Friday’s first round, Niemann knows he must produce something special to catch the Spaniard.
Joaquin Niemann makes Jon Rahm prediction ahead of LIV Golf Chicago
Despite Rahm being linked with a LIV Golf exit, the 29-year-old has produced some scintillating golf during his debut year, and Niemann expects more of the same in Chicago.
“He’s been playing great lately [Rahm], so he’s probably going to keep doing the same,” Niemann said [LIV Golf].
The Chilean added: “I’ve got to try to bring my ‘A’ game.”
Rahm also praised Niemann’s performance and admitted that he was excited about a potential showdown in Chicago after LIV Golf’s UK event.
LIV Golf permutations ahead of Individual Championship
Niemann and Rahm are the only players capable of claiming the Individual Championship at Bolingbrook this weekend.
Currently, 2.97 points separate the duo, which guarantees the top two spots. Rahm will claim the title if he matches Niemann’s score in Chicago. If Niemann finishes 18th or worse, the two-time major winner is guaranteed the title.
For Niemann to triumph, he must finish three points better off than Rahm. Therefore, a top-three finish will see him win as long as Rahm is placed outside the podium spots.
Given Rahm’s imperious form, the Chilean will know a podium is required for him to have any chance of taking home LIV’s most significant individual honour.
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