After His LIV Golf Defection, Jon Rahm Expresses ‘Utmost Respect’ for Rory McIlroy as His Biggest Fear Gets a Relieving Remedy

LIV Golf has seen a lot of haters since day one. However, one person especially stands out in this case, none other than Rory McIlroy. Moreover, the Northern Irishman has been especially expressive of his disdain towards the Saudi-backed league and its players, that is, up until a while back. And, Jon Rahm sure was glad to see the change.

The biggest critic of the Middle Eastern circuit saw a change in heart following the Spanish pro’s defection. And now, as a result, Rahm was spotted expressing his respect for his fellow Ryder Cup teammate all the while getting “emotional,” much to the surprise of many!

Jon Rahm reacts to Rory McIlroy’s show of support

There had been a lot of drama surrounding LIV golfers and their entry into the Ryder Cup. And, in the DP World Tour, they were deemed ineligible because of the resignation placed by the players owing to the sanctions. However, for Rahm, it seems he can breathe a sigh of relief despite joining the Middle Eastern circuit as even McIlroy came forward in support of his eligibility for the biennial event.

And responding to the succor was none other than the Spaniard. In an interview by Jerry Foltz and Si-Ann Heng, in their show Fairway to Heaven, the 29-year-old divulged how he has “the utmost respect” for the Northern Irishman. Moreover, he pointed out how “special” his support was, all the while revealing how “emotional” it was to hear the same.

Adding on, the LIV golfer made sure to emphasize the importance of the prestigious tournament whilst confessing how it was “one of the things that made this decision(to join LIV Golf) very difficult” for him. Moreover, the 2X major champ expressed his hope that the DP World Tour would “adapt the eligibility” of the competition since he intends to keep his membership in all three tours intact while being able to “play in more events.”

Listening to the reaction from the Spaniard naturally raises one’s curiosity regarding his Ryder Cup teammate’s comments. Moreover, it truly highlights the bond that they had as teammates during the same.

McIlroy backs up Rahm’s defection

The 34-year-old, known for his criticism of LIV Golf and its athletes including the likes of Ian Poulter, Sergio Garcia, Henrik Stenson, and Lee Westwood, surprised the community with his remarks on Rahm. What’s more, the 24X PGA Tour champ also refrained from judging his colleague who made the decision based on the best interest of his family.

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Besides, he expressed his approval of the Spanish professional becoming his teammate in the 2025 Ryder Cup in Bethpage. Continuing, the 4X major winner said, “The European Tour are going to have to rewrite the rules for Ryder Cup eligibility,” all the while highlighting the necessity of the LIV golfer’s presence on the next European team for the prestigious tournament.

Well, it is true when they say people change. And many on the alternate tour would undoubtedly be happy hearing McIlroy’s change in stance. The only thing remaining is for the golfing circuit to make the decision. Fingers crossed!

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