The calls for Jon Rahm and his LIV Golf colleagues to be allowed to represent Europe in the Ryder Cup have grown stronger with three-time captain Bernard Gallacher demanding a rule change.
Bernard Gallacher, a former Ryder Cup captain, has joined forces with Rory McIlroy in advocating for a revision of the rules. Their aim is to enable Jon Rahm and his fellow LIV Golf players to represent Europe at Bethpage in 2025.
Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton, two prominent European stars, unfortunately, cannot participate in the Ryder Cup due to the current regulations. To be eligible for selection, European players must be active members of the DP World Tour. However, both Rahm and Hatton were suspended as they joined the breakaway LIV circuit before the 2024 season, which led to their ineligibility.
Gallacher competed in nine Ryder Cups and served as captain three times in the 1990s, leading the team to victory in 1995 at Oak Hill in the United States. He emphasized to Bunkered that Team Europe captain Luke Donald will need Rahm and Donald on his team in New York next year to have a chance at defending the trophy they secured in Rome in October.
Gallacher emphasized the importance of fielding the strongest team, highlighting the age factor of Ian Poulter and Lee Westwood in the previous event. He praised Jon Rahm, a 29-year-old US Open and Masters champion, as a key player. Rory’s endorsement of Rahm further underscores his significance.
Gallacher also mentioned Tyrrell Hatton as a potential major winner and Scottie Scheffler as a strong contender among the players. He expressed confidence in Hatton’s ability to win a major and suggested including him in the team.
It is imperative to field the strongest team. The Ryder Cup would undoubtedly suffer without the presence of Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton.
Gallacher’s desire reflects McIlroy’s remarks following Rahm’s departure from the PGA Tour for a lucrative deal. McIlroy expressed his belief that Rahm, a two-time major champion, would still be a valuable asset to Donald’s 12-member team, regardless of his move to LIV.
The Northern Irishman emphasized that the tour would need to revise the rules for Ryder Cup eligibility due to this decision. McIlroy shared his thoughts with Sky Sports News, stating that Jon will be present at Bethpage in 2025 despite his move to LIV.
It is without a doubt that Jon Rahm should be on the upcoming Ryder Cup team. I will definitely miss the competition with him on a regular basis. His exceptional talent, determination, and team spirit make him a valuable asset for the Ryder Cup.
Paul McGinley, a former Europe skipper and current member of the Ryder Cup advisory board, mentioned last month that the inclusion of LIV players in the next year’s tournament is not guaranteed.
According to McGinley in an interview with the Belfast Telegraph, [LIV players] will not qualify under the current systems. Therefore, rule changes will be necessary for their eligibility. However, there are numerous obstacles that must be overcome before they can participate.
“It is essential to maintain the prestigious status of the Ryder Cup by ensuring that the best players compete, while also being equitable to all players involved. This situation requires a careful negotiation process.”
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