Jon Rahm made headlines in 2023 by winning his first and, for now, his only Masters. However, the golf world remains focused on Rahm as he prepares to compete in the 2025 Masters, this time as part of LIV Golf. LIV players like Rahm are under intense scrutiny, especially with the pressure to prove that they can perform at the highest level in majors. Since Rahm joined LIV Golf, only Brooks Koepka and Bryson DeChambeau have claimed major victories, leading to discussions about how LIV’s structure affects player performance. One PGA Tour pro, Michael Kim, remains optimistic about Rahm’s potential, noting that players like him will adapt to the new schedule, even if it takes time.
Thx for your insights and congrats on a great start to the season. How do you see the difference in LIV quality and quantity of play affecting the strongest LIV guys (ie Rahm) this week and do their odds get better with each Major?
— Andrew Miller (@amiller325gd) April 6, 2025
Rahm himself has acknowledged the challenges he’s faced in adjusting his game since joining LIV, particularly his wedge play, which he considers a crucial part of his ability to contend and win majors. While Rahm hasn’t won any LIV events in 2025, he’s consistently finished in the top six, and he’s been focusing on improving his wedge game. Rahm’s self-awareness and commitment to improvement suggest that he’s determined to regain his top form, especially as he heads into the Masters. His struggle with wedge shots, particularly from 150 yards, has raised concerns, but it’s evident he’s working hard to address this weakness.
As Rahm gears up for Augusta, he faces competition from other LIV Golf stars like Koepka, DeChambeau, and Bryson, who are all aiming to challenge the narrative that LIV players are at a disadvantage in major tournaments. With 12 LIV golfers competing in the 2025 Masters, the tournament is expected to be a fierce battle between those from both the PGA Tour and LIV.
Other notable LIV players, such as Joaquin Niemann and Tyrrell Hatton, have shown promise in recent events, with Niemann winning twice on LIV in 2025 and Hatton earning a victory at the Dubai Desert Classic. Meanwhile, players like Sergio Garcia, who had a strong performance at the US Open, and Brooks Koepka, known for his strong major performances, will also be looking to prove themselves. Other contenders like Cameron Smith, Patrick Reed, Dustin Johnson, Charl Schwartzel, Bubba Watson, and Phil Mickelson bring additional intrigue to the Masters, making it a highly anticipated event.
As the Masters approaches, Rahm and his LIV counterparts will be aiming to prove that LIV players are just as capable of dominating in major tournaments as their PGA Tour peers. The 2025 Masters is shaping up to be an exciting showdown with high stakes for everyone involved.