Jon Rahm will be able to reflect on a fantastic first year on LIV Golf, with the Spaniard producing an assured final round to clinch the individual title in Chicago and wrap up the crown for the season in the process.
Jon Rahm went into the final round of LIV Golf Chicago with a one shot lead over Sergio García. And crucially, the 29-year-old had a three-shot advantage over Joaquin Niemann with the individual title for the season on the line.
Niemann made an early statement with a birdie on the first hole, but Rahm did not drop a single shot on his way to carding a four under par round which took him across the line.
Rahm’s performances on LIV have been under scrutiny throughout the year, with the two-time major champion shocking the golfing world by jumping ship ahead of the season. And, based on his performances in the majors alone, this year has been a real disappointment for Rahm.
Jon Rahm shares what he told his caddie before his final round at LIV Golf Chicago
But you cannot argue with his consistency on LIV, with Rahm not finishing outside the top 10 all season. His victory in the Windy City marked his second individual title of the year. Despite his consistency however, Rahm seemingly felt the pressure heading into the final round.
Speaking in his press conference after his win, Rahm suggested that he could feel the tension right until the moment he teed off.
“You know, today was a special day in many ways. I woke up really nervous today, as I thought I would, and even warming up, I told Adam, man, I’m nervous. But then I started thinking, playing with Sergio and Brooks, last time both me and Sergio played good, it was a good Sunday in Valderrama; Sergio ended up winning. Last time I went up against Brooks, he ended up beating me. I wanted to hopefully do a really good showing this time and maybe get it over the line,” he said.
“Just really happy to have played as good as I did. To go bogey-free on the weekend, one bogey all tournament, it’s quite spectacular. Very proud of how I played today, and very proud of that putt on 17, which made 18 a lot easier.”
Why 2025 looks so important for the Spaniard
Rahm’s critics will likely play down his achievements on LIV Golf, noting that he has barely been any sort of factor in the major championships this year. Certainly, you would think that he would trade his year with Bryson DeChambeau, after his victory at the US Open.
His next challenge is to take that form into the major championships. Some think Rahm may be struggling due to the LIV format. He is obviously playing much less frequently, and each event has just three rounds.
LIV definitely need more success in the majors if they are looking to secure more credibility from the wider golf community. LIV’s players had a poor year in the majors on the whole, so they will certainly be looking to Rahm in 2025 as they look to make more of a statement in the sport’s four biggest events.
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