Jon Rahm has revealed that he will not speak to the media until next year after quitting the PGA Tour to join LIV Golf, but has insisted that is his own decision, denying speculation he was banned by the Saudi-funded league.
The reigning Master champion was announced as the newest recruit by LIV Golf last week, following several weeks of speculation around his future. Rahm became the latest of golf’s biggest stars to join the breakaway league, following the likes of Phil Mickelson, Brooks Koepka, and Dustin Johnson.
Rahm issued a statement when the news was confirmed that he would be joining LIV, but that remains the only time he has spoken publicly about the deal. The 29-year-old was in Bilbao, Spain on Wednesday giving a speech as he was awarded the ‘Dama Bilbaina 2023’ prize.
During his speech, Rahm admitted to being taken aback by the number of media outlets in attendance at Sociedad Bilbaina Hall. The newest LIV Golf recruit went on to reveal that he is opting not to take part in any media interviews until February next year, when the new season will get underway.
“I didn’t think there would be any cameras and that it would be a bit more intimate,” Rahm said, via Reuters.
“I am under very strict instructions not to do public events, which I have imposed on myself a little bit for myself, and for the change I have given to the world of golf in the last week.”
Rahm was then asked if he would be planning to take part in any interviews, to which he replied: “No!” He then added: “There will be nothing until February, I’m not allowed to.”
LIV Golf’s 2024 season is due to get underway on February 2 in Mayakoba, Mexico. Rahm is now expected to be taking part in that event, in what is likely to be his first tournament since leaving the PGA Tour.
