Jon Rahm, the two-time major champion and former world No. 1 golfer, has announced plans to take a lengthy break following a challenging season. This decision marks a significant change for Rahm, who has successfully won at least one tournament each year since turning professional in 2017.
In an interview with Ten Golf after finishing the Spanish Open in Madrid, Rahm expressed his anticipation for the time off, stating, “I’ve never had three months off, but I’m looking forward to it.” His statement comes after a particularly difficult performance on the course. On Saturday, he recorded a disappointing score of 71, which included a double bogey, leaving him 12 shots behind the leader in pursuit of a fourth national title and the opportunity to surpass the legendary Seve Ballesteros as the tournament’s most successful golfer since the European Tour’s inception in 1972.
Despite the setback, Rahm managed to recover on Sunday, closing with a six-under 65, which secured him a tie for ninth place in the tournament. He reflected on the importance of balance in his life, saying, “I’m lucky to be able to go home now, have a pre-season, be a father, be with my family.” This break is expected to last approximately four months, with the LIV Golf season set to commence on February 5, 2026, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Rahm’s decision to step away follows ongoing discussions regarding sanctions imposed on him by the European Tour for his participation in LIV Golf events. He has publicly stated that he does not intend to pay the fines levied against him. As he embarks on this break, the golfer remains focused on his family and personal life, while contemplating the future of his career in golf.
This marks a pivotal moment for Rahm, who has consistently been a prominent figure in professional golf. His return to the sport will likely be closely watched as he navigates this transitional period.
