Jon Rahm May Never Again Follow His Legendary Role Model’s Steps, Something He Adored During American Express

Imagine achieving a golfing dream that mirrors your hero’s journey. Well, that’s exactly what happened for Jon Rahm a year ago, when he triumphed at The American Express on January 22, 2023. Winning the event was a joyful occasion as is but what made it more special for him was that his golf story took a fascinating turn, keeping him on the same pedestal as his inspiration, Seve Ballesteros.

Having joined LIV Golf, by the looks of it, a unique twist is added to Rahm’s legacy. After his $566 million defection, the golfer might not be able to follow in the footsteps of the Spanish golf legend, and probably recreate a captivating chapter reminiscent of his idol’s early glory. A year ago, in an interview after winning the 2023 American Express event, Jon Rahm reflected on a significant milestone, securing his ninth PGA Tour win and aligning himself with Seve Ballesteros.

When questioned about this achievement, Rahm humorously remarked, “Yeah, well, a slight asterisk next to that one, right? I mean, Seve didn’t play the full-time PGA Tour. So, the fact that he had nine wins is pretty spectacular.” He disclosed a personal connection and stated, “I’ve spoken many times about the reason why I play golf. My dad started playing golf because of the ’97 Ryder Cup and Seve’s captaincy. That’s basically why I’m here.”

Rahm acknowledged the profound impact Ballesteros had on his journey, emphasizing the importance of representing golf in Spain during Ballesteros’s era. The Spanish professional golfer shared a joyful moment and expressed, “I can’t help but smile because, again, it’s a very, very emotional week every time I go. In a very good way.” He continued to make waves in the golf world in 2023 and secured more wins. His dedication to the game echoed Ballesteros’s obsession with golf as a craft, a sentiment Rahm shared.

Although the golfer wishes to take forward the legacy of his idol, with his defection, he won’t be able to do that. Rahm may continue to play on the DPWT since he still holds the membership, as of now, he is suspended from the American Tour.

Jon Rahm wishes to make an impact like Ballesteros

Rahm added a heartfelt desire to contribute to this legacy, stating, “I would love to be able to escalate that. I know it will be hard to do to the level that he did, but if I can increase that number and make golf more popular in Spain, I’ll be a happy man.” This poignant commitment illustrated Rahm’s aspiration to follow in Seve Ballesteros’s footsteps, adding depth and sincerity to his golfing journey.

Read more: The Sentry 2024: Jon Rahm and Cameron Smith’s LIV Golf Defection Has a Mysterious PGA Tour Coincidence That Will Leave You Bewildered

Jon Rahm faced a tough start at the Masters 2023 but made an incredible comeback, tying for the lead and eventually winning by four strokes. Inspired by Seve Ballesteros, Rahm persevered, recalling Ballesteros’ quote, “I miss, I miss, I miss, I make.”

Notably, Jon Rahm will not be able to participate in the American Express event this year due to his move to LIV Golf. Being a PGA Tour event, Saudi league’s players are restricted from competing in it.

Watch this story: ‘Rarely Got to Spend’: Jon Rahm Evokes His Emotional Side While Justifying His Live Golf Move