Jon Rahm has officially turned down the new deal for LIV Golf 2.0. His lawyer stated on Wednesday that the proposed terms are unacceptable to the Spanish star. Just as the league attempts to exit bankruptcy via a fresh financial model, this move occurs. The decision leaves LIV without its biggest name and signals deep trouble for the 2027 reboot.
A Hard No From the Top Star
The news broke during a bankruptcy court hearing on Wednesday. John Beck, the lawyer for Rahm, spoke directly to the judge about the situation. He made it clear that Rahm has looked at the new terms and found them wanting. Beck said, “Mr. Rahm has independently reviewed the proposed terms of LIV 2.0…and has determined that those terms are unacceptable to him, and he will not be participating going forward in LIV 2.0.” This statement ends any hope of Rahm returning to the fold under the current plan.
In December 2023, Rahm entered the league and rapidly transformed into a significant attraction. Four tournaments overall and three straight individual season titles have been secured by him. Losing a player with his market value is a massive blow to the league’s attempts to rebuild. The league filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in September after Saudi Arabia pulled its financial backing. Now, with a target of $300 million in new funding, losing its top star hurts the pitch to investors.
More Players Are Looking for the Exit
Rahm is not the only one reconsidering his future. Polish golfer Adrian Meronk reportedly has no intention of joining LIV 2.0 either. Meronk just won the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, which secures his status on the DP World Tour through 2028. This win gives him a clear path outside of LIV. The fact that both Rahm and Meronk are walking away on the same day shows a growing rift within the league.
The league is trying to rein in spending and make the business more viable. They want more player ownership, but retention is key to that model working. Losing Meronk, who has quietly been a successful player, adds to the uncertainty. The proposed financing package from BC Partners Credit is designed to help the league emerge. Yet, a roster that is shrinking right before the launch is not a strong foundation.
The Path Forward Remains Murky
Advanced talks continue regarding a consensual separation deal for Rahm’s team. They hope to finalize this before October 15 for a November 5 hearing. If the sides cannot agree, Rahm intends to press his objection to the rejection motion. Beck warned the court, “If the parties, for whatever reason, are unable to reach a consensual separation agreement, Mr. Rahm intends to press his objection to the rejection motion.” This legal battle could drag on and delay the league’s plans.
It is unclear where Rahm goes next. Although he may seek a return to the PGA Tour, the Tour has not pledged to welcome ex-LIV players.
