Jon Rahm’s future continues to dominate the golf world, and LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil has now weighed in as speculation grows over a possible return to the PGA Tour.
Rahm has become increasingly linked with an exit from LIV Golf after the 2026 season, raising questions about what his departure would mean for the league and whether he could eventually return to the PGA Tour.
O’Neil was asked about the situation and made it clear that LIV Golf remains focused on its own plans rather than allowing speculation surrounding individual players to dictate its direction.
Rahm joined LIV in December 2023 in a reported $350 million deal and quickly became one of the most influential figures in the league. As captain of Legion XIII, he has also enjoyed remarkable individual success, winning three consecutive LIV Golf Individual Championships.
His potential departure would therefore be a major blow to the organisation.
O’Neil responds to Rahm speculation
O’Neil has remained measured when discussing Rahm’s future, refusing to allow the growing rumours to overshadow LIV Golf’s plans for the next phase of the competition.
The league is currently undergoing major changes as it prepares for life beyond 2026, following the decision by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund not to continue funding LIV beyond the current season.
That uncertainty has only intensified questions surrounding Rahm.
However, O’Neil’s response suggests LIV is prepared to deal with whatever decision the Spaniard ultimately makes.
PGA Tour return could be complicated
If Rahm does leave LIV, returning to the PGA Tour may not be as simple as walking back through the door.
Scottie Scheffler recently said players returning from LIV should face penalties, although he also admitted he would welcome the opportunity to compete against Rahm and other leading LIV stars again.
Brooks Koepka’s recent return provides a possible example of what Rahm could face.
Koepka returned to the PGA Tour under its Returning Membership program after leaving LIV, but was required to make a significant charitable payment and faced restrictions on his eligibility for certain events.
Rahm could therefore face similar conditions if the PGA Tour establishes another pathway for former LIV players.
Rahm’s decision could reshape golf
The possibility of Rahm returning to the PGA Tour comes at a crucial moment for professional golf.
His departure would remove one of LIV’s biggest stars, while his return would immediately strengthen the PGA Tour’s player field.
For O’Neil and LIV Golf, the priority now appears to be building a sustainable future regardless of what Rahm ultimately decides.
But with the 2026 season approaching its conclusion, Jon Rahm’s next move could become one of the biggest decisions in the ongoing battle between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour.