MEXICO CITY -- Jon Rahm concluded a turbulent week in LIV Golf fashion, finishing with a superb 7-under 64 on Sunday, which paved the way for a commanding six-shot victory at LIV Golf Mexico City. This triumph marks Rahm's second win on the circuit this year, following a season in which he did not claim any titles, despite finishing as the points leader.
Reflecting on his strong performance, Rahm noted, "If you would have told me last week on Thursday afternoon that I'd be winning by a six-shot margin this week, I would not have believed you because of how bad I played. Hell of an effort."
Rahm's journey through the tournament was additionally poignant as he revisited past disappointments from 2017 at Chapultepec Golf Club, the site of the previous World Golf Championship. This time around, he made his mark with notable highlights, including a birdie on the reachable par-4 second hole and an eagle just a hole later, while maintaining a bogey-free scorecard.
Amid Rahm's success, the week was fraught with other challenges for the LIV Golf organization. Ongoing uncertainties about the league’s financial stability surfaced, prompting CEO Scott O'Neil to reassure staff via a memo that funding is secured through the end of the year. This announcement came in response to widespread speculation regarding the league's financial viability.
The tournament week was also complicated by a power outage that disrupted streaming for two hours during the opening round. Furthermore, Bryson DeChambeau’s withdrawal from the final round due to a wrist injury further intensified the drama. DeChambeau, attempting to become the first player to win three consecutive LIV events, was 16 strokes behind Rahm at the time of his exit. He shared his concerns, stating, "I experienced some discomfort in my wrist during yesterday's round and have decided to withdraw from the final round of LIV Golf Mexico City to prevent further injury. Not how I wanted this week to go."
Despite these challenges, Rahm continued to perform remarkably well, propelling his Legion XIII team to victory for the first time this season. David Puig, who carded a solid 66, secured second place and gained critical world ranking points, effectively positioning himself for the upcoming PGA Championship. With one more strong performance, he could also qualify for the U.S. Open.
Looking back on the conditions he faced during the tournament, Rahm explained how the wind fluctuations tested his patience. "I think towards our final nine holes, the wind started switching, so there were a few shots, like on 12, you could see with both Thomas and Talor, it was supposed to be off the left and it was dead in off the right," he said.
This win not only boosts Rahm's confidence but signifies the resilience he demonstrated throughout the week amidst struggles both personally and within the LIV framework. As the circuit announces plans to return to Chapultepec next year, fans and players alike are eager to see how the story unfolds, especially with major tournaments like the PGA Championship on the horizon.
Rahm’s performance serves as a testament to his skill and determination, as he continues to navigate the complexities of the LIV Golf landscape, all while maintaining an eye on future successes.
