Jon Rahm is quitting LIV Golf after determining that the proposed terms of the tour’s planned relaunch were “unacceptable,” his lawyer told a US bankruptcy court on Wednesday.
The decision represents a major setback for LIV Golf as the breakaway tour seeks new investment and attempts to rebuild ahead of its planned 2027 season.
Rahm, a former world No. 1 and two-time major champion, was among the biggest names to leave the PGA Tour for LIV Golf. His departure from the PGA Tour, alongside stars such as Bryson DeChambeau and Dustin Johnson, was a major boost for the Saudi-backed circuit when it launched in 2022.
Rahm rejects LIV 2.0 terms
Rahm’s lawyer, John Beck, told a US Bankruptcy Court of New Jersey hearing that the golfer had independently reviewed the proposed terms for what LIV has called “LIV 2.0.”
“Mr. Rahm has independently reviewed the proposed terms of LIV 2.0 and has determined that those terms are unacceptable as to him,” Beck said.
He added that Rahm would not participate in the revamped tour going forward.
Beck also said Rahm and LIV were engaged in advanced discussions over a consensual separation agreement. The agreement is expected to be presented to the court next month.
If the two sides fail to reach an agreement, Rahm intends to challenge the matter through legal channels, his lawyer said.
LIV Golf did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
LIV seeks fresh investment after bankruptcy
LIV Golf filed for bankruptcy protection last month after its Saudi-backed financial support was withdrawn.
The tour is now attempting to secure new investment and relaunch as a shorter, more streamlined competition in 2027. Its proposed schedule includes tournaments across five continents, with events planned in countries including Australia, South Africa, Mexico, England and the United States.
Bankruptcy filings show that LIV has estimated liabilities of between $500 million and $1 billion to at least 1,000 creditors, including players.
Rahm, DeChambeau and Johnson are among the players with the largest unsecured claims, with each owed more than $5 million in immediately past-due payments, according to the filings.
BC Partners Credit has pledged an initial funding commitment of up to $300 million to support LIV’s planned relaunch.
Rahm’s future remains uncertain
Rahm’s departure comes amid growing speculation about the future of LIV Golf and whether some of its biggest names could eventually return to the PGA Tour.
The PGA Tour has said it currently has no plans to create a pathway for LIV players to return.
Rahm remains active on the DP World Tour but recently announced that he would miss the Spanish Open to be with his family for the birth of his fourth child.
His exit leaves LIV facing another major challenge as it attempts to attract investors, retain star power and establish a sustainable future after years of disruption in professional golf.
