Golf star Rahm quitting LIV tour over 'unacceptable' terms

Golf star Jon Rahm is abandoning the LIV Golf tour due to "unacceptable" terms, according to his lawyer. This decision significantly impacts LIV Golf, which is attempting to relaunch after declaring bankruptcy. Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau were among the most high-profile golfers to defect from the PGA Tour and join LIV. However, LIV filed for bankruptcy protection last month following the withdrawal of its wealthy Middle Eastern backers.

The tour aims to relaunch as LIV 2.0 next year, with new investors promising a potential $300 million funding commitment. Retaining top stars like Rahm was crucial to LIV's prospects. Rahm's lawyer, John Beck, stated that after reviewing the proposed terms of LIV 2.0, he determined them to be unacceptable and Rahm will not participate.

Discussions for a consensual separation agreement are ongoing, with a potential presentation before the court next month. If no agreement is reached, Rahm intends to pursue the matter legally. LIV Golf, launched in 2022, faced significant controversy and financial challenges, with the original investors, including the Saudi Public Investment Fund, pouring an estimated $5 billion into the league before halting operations.