Golf 2023: LIV shake up golf with $400 million deal to secure Masters champion Jon Rahm

Greg Norman and LIV Golf have done it again, this time signing one of the world’s best golfers, world no. 3 and reigning Masters champion, Jon Rahm to an almost half billion dollar deal.

AUGUSTA, GEORGIA – APRIL 09: Jon Rahm of Spain poses with the Masters trophy during the Green Jacket Ceremony after winning the 2023 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 09, 2023 in Augusta, Georgia. Christian Petersen/Getty Images/AFP (Photo by Christian Petersen / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)

Greg Norman and LIV Golf have sent shudders through the sport once again after confirming the signing of world No. 3 Jon Rahm.

Rahm’s defection to LIV Golf was announced on Friday morning (AEDT and ends weeks of speculation over the future of the Masters champion.

“I am proud to join LIV Golf and be part of something new that is bringing growth to the sport,” Rahm said.

“I have no doubt that this is a great opportunity for me and my family and am very excited for the future.”

Jon Rahm the 2023 US Masters champion. Picture: Getty Images via AFP

Rahm was reportedly paid in excess of $400 million to join the Saudi-backed rebel league and his decision comes amid peace talks aimed at uniting the tours.

“When I first met Jon at the age of 17, I knew then that the golfing world was about to witness the birth of a new star. Jon has consistently validated that he is one of the top players in the world,” said Norman, LIV Golf commissioner.

Welcome to the LIV family @JonRahmpga. I met you when you were 19 and recognized your immense talent at the time. Your accomplishments since then have been tremendous. Look forward to an incredible journey ahead mate. pic.twitter.com/AgwpEhGHbV

— Greg Norman (@SharkGregNorman) December 7, 2023

“He’s a generational talent who has proven his merit as a multiple major champion and tremendous ambassador for global golf by placing the game ahead of himself.

“There are very few athletes with his pedigree of talent, leadership, poise, and commitment to bringing progress to the sport on a worldwide stage. We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Jon to the LIV Golf family as the league continues preparations for a huge 2024 and beyond.”

Rahm will kick off his LIV commitments at in February the event in Mayakoba in Mexico. Significantly, he will play in Adelaide later in the year when LIV returns to Australia.

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LIV Golf CEO, Greg Norman has had another win with the signing of reigning masters champion Jon Rahm. Picture: Cliff Hawkins/Getty Images

Rumours over his future became a discussion point at last week’s Australian Open, where the likes of Adam Scott, Marc Leishman and Matt Jones were asked about the impact his defection would have on the sport.

“It’s crazy,” Scott said.

“Good luck. I’ve always said to anyone, good luck if you can get it. I’ve always felt I don’t need to try and convince people to stay or go. I think everyone can make their decisions, but I don’t think necessarily the golf world’s worse if [Rahm] goes and plays at LIV. It’s a shame for the [PGA Tour] though.”

Crucially, the imminent deal comes as LIV Golf and the US PGA Tour prepare to step up talks over a merger agreement, which is due to be completed by December 31.