Golf sensation Jon Rahm, fresh off his Masters victory in April and currently ranked third globally, is reportedly set to bid farewell to the PGA Tour and join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf. The Wall Street Journal broke the news on Thursday, citing insider sources familiar with the matter.

The highly anticipated move, estimated to be valued between $450 million and $600 million, is expected to be officially announced this week. However, caution is urged as negotiations are still underway, and the deal could potentially face last-minute hiccups.

Rahm’s departure marks a significant blow to the PGA Tour, especially with the looming December 31st merger deadline with LIV Golf. The financial terms of the impending deal are eye-watering, with Rahm poised to earn over $500 million (possibly as much as $600 million), surpassing the entire prize pool for the 2023 PGA Tour.

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The Spanish golf prodigy, who earned $16.5 million in 2023 from four victories, two second-place finishes, and a third-place finish, has accumulated a career total of $77.2 million since 2016. In stark contrast, his multi-year pact with LIV Golf is set to elevate his earnings to unprecedented levels, at least six times more than his entire PGA Tour career.

Money Speaks For John Rahm

This move comes as a surprise. Although, considering them money, not much of one. Given Rahm’s previous expressions of loyalty to the PGA Tour, it seemed he was a lifer. The impending departure underscores the seismic shifts in the golfing landscape, as LIV Golf continues to attract marquee names with its extravagant offers.

Rahm’s reported deal underscores the enormous financial allure, making it one of the most lucrative contracts in the history of the sport. As golf fans await the official confirmation, Rahm’s decision to embrace the riches of LIV Golf promises to reshape the future trajectory of professional golf.