Masters champion Jon Rahm made headlines globally after announcing his move from the PGA Tour to the Saudi-backed LIV Golf in a lucrative deal, prompting the Spaniard to lay low until February.

In his first appearance post-signing with the rebel circuit funded by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), the 29-year-old Rahm expressed surprise at finding TV cameras at an event in Bilbao, Spain. Attending an event to receive the ‘Dama Bilbaina 2023’ prize from the Sociedad Bilbaina hall, Rahm noted the unexpected media presence.

“I didn’t think there would be any cameras and that it would be a bit more intimate,” Rahm mentioned to a select audience at the ceremony, acknowledging the outnumbered media presence. Follow your favourite golfer with attractive betting odds from Nextbet. 

Under strict self-imposed guidelines, Rahm emphasized his intention to avoid public events until February. “I am under very strict instructions not to do public events, which I have imposed on myself a little bit for myself, and for the change I have given to the world of golf in the last week,” Rahm explained, declining an interview and stating, “There will be nothing until February, I’m not allowed to.”

Rahm’s switch to LIV Golf, making him one of the biggest names to join the league, garnered attention. Reports indicated a significant payout of at least $300 million, with some sources suggesting a guaranteed sum closer to $600 million for the world number three Spaniard.

The departure of Rahm, known for his popularity and charisma in golf, marks another blow to the PGA Tour, witnessing several stars defect to the breakaway league enticed by substantial financial rewards. Get free golf predictions only on Nextbet Sports. 

Despite his high-profile status, Rahm described himself simply as a “normal person,” asserting, “I don’t consider that what I do is much different, and that I am more or less important than the rest… hopefully a little less so in the future…”