Jon Rahm has revealed he had no choice but to snub Phil Mickelson from discussions over joining him in LIV Golf in a record-breaking move.
Rahm has confirmed he has accepted a lucrative deal – believed to be the biggest in golf history – to join Mickelson in the Saudi-funded golf league. While he remained coy on the details, he’s reported to have earned a £450million deal thanks to a huge signing fee to join Mickelson and co.
Mickelson has been a leading figure since being one of the first players to ditch the PGA Tour and lead the LIV-led revolt among the sport’s top stars. But Rahm insists he had absolutely no role in his own decision to follow suit.
The Spaniard has admitted previously turning to the American ace for advice – but claims the nature of negotiations meant he needed to keep him in the dark over his landmark move.
Asked if Mickelson played a part in his decision, Rahm told FOX News: “None. No role at all. All those players on LIV are finding out shortly after we’re doing this Q&A. No role at all.
“He’s somebody I lean on to for advice as I’ve always done but not somebody I’ve talked to. I know he wishes I could’ve talked to him but it’s not something I could’ve done.”
Rahm is close to fellow Spaniard and new LIV Golf colleague Sergio Garcia, but the same applied as far as he was concerned with concerns over any potential leaks.
“We couldn’t risk information coming out even though somehow it always does,” Rahm said. “It’s been certain texts I’ve had to diffuse and certain topics.
“He did reach out and he did talk to me a little bit. We’ve stayed in contact ever since he went so it’s not out of the ordinary.”
