The Masters gets underway at Augusta National in just a few days, and all eyes will be on the likes of Joaquin Niemann, Dustin Johnson and the rest of LIV Golf’s playing stars – including Jon Rahm.
Butch Harmon, the renowned coach, holds the belief that LIV Golf players possess an equal opportunity to succeed at the Masters, even though they participate in 54-hole, no-cut tournaments.
As the golfing season’s inaugural major event commences at Augusta National in Georgia on Thursday, a LIV Golf superstar will defend their title. Jon Rahm, who secured his first green jacket in 2023, made a significant move to LIV later that year, signing a lucrative £450 million deal.
He has only participated in four competitive tournaments this year, with the latest being in Miami over the weekend, all organized by LIV and following the regulations of the Saudi Arabia-backed breakaway series.
There have been concerns raised about whether playing in a laid-back environment, with loud music playing, is enough preparation for competing in what is considered one of the most significant events in the sport, but Harmon disagrees with that notion.
When questioned by the media about the possibility of LIV players facing difficulties in competing against PGA Tour players in major tournaments, the renowned coach confidently expressed his belief that players like Rahm, Brooks Koepka, and Dustin Johnson would be equally competitive.
He emphasized that he couldn’t deny their preparedness, citing the example of Brooks Koepka’s performance last year, highlighting their readiness and skills on the course.
He continued: “Another thing to consider is the unique setting, that’s for sure. The financial aspect is quite secure, the decision to relocate was mainly driven by financial reasons. When you consider the top players like Rahm, DJ, Brooks, and many others, 13 of them are competing at the Masters – these individuals are still capable of performing well in golf.
“It would be inaccurate to claim that they won’t be competitive. While they do play 54 holes in a more laid-back environment, they are undeniably among the top players globally.”
Have you seen the incredible year Joaquin Niemann has had? He’s been absolutely on fire! I believe we’ll see a few LIV players at Augusta who will be right in the mix and have a shot at winning – Jon Rahm is definitely one of them, especially as the defending champion.
Joaquin Niemann has been exceptionally impressive on the LIV circuit this season, emerging victorious in two events. He has been vocal about the absence of Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points for LIV players, a matter that sparks debate within the sport.
The absence of OWGR points has caused a decline in the world rankings of players participating in the LIV circuit, resulting in Niemann currently occupying the 91st position, which is considered unreasonable for someone expected to win their first major this week.
However, Harmon suggests that this problem could be resolved effortlessly if LIV CEO Greg Norman were to implement a crucial modification to the league’s operations. Harmon expressed his opinion, stating, “In my personal view, I believe it would be beneficial for them to extend the tournament to 72 holes and increase the number of participants. By doing so, I believe they would be eligible to receive world ranking points.”
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