In just a few hours, golf enthusiasts will witness the return of top-tier golf to Valderrama , Spain’s most iconic golf course. This weekend, the venue will host its annual tournament, the only LIV event in Spain. Jon Rahm , the pride of Barrika, is the tournament’s flagship player. After a busy day filled with interviews, corporate activities, and practice sessions, Rahm managed to spare some time for an exclusive chat with *El Mundo* just as he completed Hole 18 on the last day of practice before the pro-am.
The Evolution of Jon Rahm
- A decade ago, it was an ‘amateur’ who wanted to eat the world. What remains of the boy aiming to be the best in history?
- What remains is the same ambition, but I’ve learned that some things are better kept private. The excitement still drives me; my goal remains steadfast. If I set smaller or more attainable objectives, my motivation to train diminishes, and that longing for improvement keeps me going.
- Many extraordinary events have unfolded in these ten years. Would that boy be surprised to learn you’ve won two majors, become one of the highest-paid athletes, or have three children?
- (Pauses to reflect) I think he’d be shocked most at the family aspect. As for golf, I’d probably tell him he still should aim to win more tournaments (laughs), but that’s often said out of ignorance.
- Is financial security a concern for you?
- Absolutely not. My family’s support has always provided me with a sense of security.
- Do you ever think reaching LIV was a mistake?
- Not at all. Last year was challenging for me, especially with Kelley’s complicated pregnancy. Those issues made my golfing concerns feel trivial. But once I’ve made a decision, I stand by it.
- Your first memory of Valderrama?
- It dates back to 2007 when I visited with my father to watch the Volvo Masters. I vividly remember Thomas Bjorn hitting a spectacular shot from the seventh-hole bunker.
Insights on LIV Golf
- If you had a magical wand, what would you change about LIV Golf?
- I’d prefer to keep my thoughts private on this matter, as they can be easily misconstrued.
- There’s always room for improvement. What would you like to see changed?
- That’s a good question. I’ve got several ideas, but I’ll say this: I wish the calendar could be finalized earlier so everyone can plan and so the public has a chance to travel. The new format this year, which includes individual team scores, is a positive step. However, I feel the world ranking points need to be incorporated better, as the current structure doesn’t accurately reflect the best players.
- Are you satisfied with the competitive level of LIV?
- Given LIV’s limited support thus far, it has faced criticism that is characteristic of any sport offering guaranteed money. Although it’s a different approach to launching a league, I believe we’re making strides in building our reputation. The competitive spirit remains high; LIV players are often in the top 10, yet they represent just about 10% in Majors. We’re all striving for improvement, and LIV is gaining attention globally, including here in Spain.
- Has the LIV format altered your level of play?
- No, it hasn’t changed at all. It’s tempting to attribute on-the-course performance to changes in format, but struggles often come from within oneself. My dip in form began in 2023, and that’s purely a personal issue.
- With the British Open looming, how do you feel about playing in such a different environment right before it?
- We’ve discussed this before. If we can’t compete on a Links course, it would be better if we had the week off to prepare for it. The upside of Valderrama is its demanding nature, which prepares us mentally. That said, it’s typically windy, as we’ve noticed this Wednesday.
- What’s the best aspect of LIV?
- It’s about how we’re treated—family, caddies, everyone involved. The attention given to every detail, including the quality of food, makes everyone feel valued.
- Is a connection to the traditional world of golf ever a possibility?
- I’m not sure. However, I can say that I have a good rapport with the new CEO, which should prove beneficial.
- You won’t miss the Ryder Cup, will you?
- I remain optimistic, but nothing’s guaranteed. I’ll continue fighting to qualify and aim to excel next week in Royal Portrush. Political dynamics exist that I can’t control, but I believe I will play.
- Do you anticipate a challenging atmosphere?
- Not to the extent experienced at Whistling Straits, honestly. I mentioned to Tyrrell my story about Luis Figo’s first Camp Nou experience, which was quite intense. Such moments are inherent in sport, but I genuinely enjoyed my time at Whistling.
Interestingly, just as Rahm concluded his play at Hole 18, football icons Luis Figo and Aritz Aduriz joined him at the venue, disrupting his rhythm amid the Gaditan tour.