Greg Norman: Jon Rahm's Addition to LIV Golf Is Sign Format Resonates with Players

LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman expressed his belief Wednesday that the signing of Jon Rahm is proof that LIV's format is attractive to many of the top golfers in the world.

According to ESPN's Mark Schlabach, Norman suggested that players are drawn to the 54-hole tournaments and the inclusion of a team aspect to the tourneys:

"I think word is getting out there amongst all the players around the world, even the top players, the best players in the world. They love our format, they love our platform, they love the team spirit, the team atmosphere. And to be honest with you, I've seen it resonate very, very loudly this year. And obviously, Jon is an incredible addition to us."

Rahm was announced as LIV Golf's newest and arguably biggest signing to date last week, and Schlabach reported that the Spaniard landed a multiyear contract worth more than $300 million as part of the agreement.

Since the formation of LIV Golf in 2021, several high-profile golfers have made the leap from the PGA Tour, including Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka, Bryson DeChambeau and Patrick Reed, among others.

While many major champions are part of LIV, Rahm is the best current player to make the move, as the 2021 U.S. Open and 2023 Masters champion is ranked as the No. 3 golfer in the world.

Rahm acknowledged that signing a "great deal" played a role in his decision, but he also expressed hope that by going to LIV, he can help "make golf better."

It seems as though LIV Golf isn't done poaching from the PGA Tour ahead of the 2024 season, as Norman said multiple golfers have reached out to him about being part of Rahm's team.

Norman added that about eight to 12 players are in the conversation to land one of the final two or three spots on the LIV roster.

Signing Rahm is a move that calls into question the future of the proposed merger between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf.

Last month, PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan said Dec. 31 was a "firm target" date for him and Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund governor Yasir Al-Rumayyan to reach an agreement on a deal between the two sides.

Back in June, the PGA Tour announced its intention to take on Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund as an investor, which would result in the PGA Tour and LIV Golf operating under the same umbrella.

Talks have not progressed as quickly as hoped, and with the Dec. 31 deadline approaching, the two sides may have to extend the timeline or scrap the plans completely.

LIV Golf is continuing to operate as it always has by signing as many top-flight golfers as it can, and with Rahm now in the fold, Norman seems to believe it could help LIV land even more notable players for the 2024 season.