08 December 2023 , 00:59
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Tiger Woods took to social media to post an update to his fellow PGA Tour players just seconds after Jon Rahm announced his record-breaking move to LIV Golf.
After weeks of speculation Rahm's move to the LIV setup was finally confirmed, with the Spaniard making the announcement during an interview with Fox News. Explaining the reason behind his Saudi switch, the Spaniard said: "The past two years there's been a lot of evolving in the game of golf and things have changed a lot and so have I.
"Seeing the growth and evolution and the innovation is something that’s captured my attention and that’s why we’re here today... I believe it’s the best for me and my family...
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"I’m very comfortable with my decision. Just learn to deal with it. It won't define who I am or change who I am. With experience you learn to deal with negativity better.” Rahm follows in the footsteps of the likes of Phil Mickelson, Brooks Koepka and Dustin Johnson in making the Saudi switch.
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The move of the Spaniard however appears to be the PGA Tour's biggest loss yet, with Rahm moving to LIV as the world No. 3 and Masters champion. As Rahm's unveiling was taking place, 82-time Tour winner Woods opted to take to social media to break his silence on the ongoing negotiations between the American-based circuit and the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia (PIF).
The PGA Tour are currently in talks with PIF to end the bitter feud between the Tour and the LIV setup. With the future of the deal uncertain amid the December 31 deadline, Woods and his fellow PGA Tour Player Directors penned a letter to their fellow players to provide an update.
Jon Rahm has opted to join LIV Golf (Getty)The letter - that was leaked earlier this week - sees Woods and co call for unity within the Tour, whilst revealing both sides of the framework agreement are working 'diligently' towards meeting their end of year deadline. "Since Tiger joined the Policy Board on August 1st, the Player Directors have been doing everything we can to ensure the PGA Tour is best positioned to thrive for decades to come," it read.
"We have learned a lot, and we are encouraged by progress on multiple fronts." It was then signed by Woods, as well as Patrick Cantlay, Charley Hoffman, Peter Malnati, Webb Simpson and Adam Scott. Those who opted to leave Woods and co. and join the Saudi-backed league have all seen their PGA Tour membership suspended.
Rahm however is hoping he can continue to play on both the PGA Tour and DP World Tour, as well as the LIV circuit. " I do want to maintain my PGA Tour and DPWT status I will not give that up. Hopefully with the freedom LIV gives me I can play both those tours. There are certain PGA Tour events I want to play as long as my schedule allows. If possible, I want to make that happen.”