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Jon Rahm returned from a seven-week absence to claim a two-shot victory at the Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship, marking his 11th DP World Tour title and his first since April 2023. The Rolex Series triumph comes after a period of significant changes for the Spaniard, both on and off the golf course.
Victory and Family Milestone
The tournament served as Rahm’s first start since finishing at the bottom of the leaderboard at September’s BMW PGA Championship, where his focus was heavily on the anticipated early arrival of his fourth child. His wife, Kelley, subsequently gave birth to their daughter, Begona, in mid-October. Concurrently, his playing future became clearer after reaching a separation agreement with LIV Golf ahead of that organization winding down operations.
During his three seasons with LIV Golf, the former world number one did not secure a win on the DP World Tour. However, his latest success in Abu Dhabi—achieved by battling past Ryder Cup teammates Tyrrell Hatton and Rory McIlroy—delivered his record-breaking sixth Rolex Series victory.
Reflecting on the win, Rahm told Sky Sports that the feeling from his previous outing to this success was remarkable. He noted that breaking the tie with Hatton, whom he regards as a close friend and a fierce competitor, made the week especially memorable.
Turning the Page After Off-Course Noise
Last month, Rahm’s attorney stated in a bankruptcy court that the player would not participate in any proposed ‘LIV 2.0’ venture, following three seasons where he topped the individual standings and won four events on the circuit. Addressing the constant speculation surrounding his status and the league throughout the season, Rahm acknowledged that the surrounding distractions had been significant, though secondary to his personal life.
He admitted that the impending birth weighed heavily on his mind at Wentworth and made course management more difficult. By contrast, he felt a renewed sense of calmness throughout the week in Abu Dhabi, which he credited for his strong performance.
When asked by Sky Sports if the demise of LIV Golf marked the conclusion of a chapter in his professional journey, Rahm affirmed that it certainly felt that way. He described the victory as quite special following recent struggles, mental battles, and external noise, arriving right after a period of rest and a new addition to his family.
Chasing the Race to Dubai Title
Ahead of the tournament, Rahm mentioned he had not discussed a potential return with the PGA Tour. His triumph in Abu Dhabi has now kept alive his mathematical chances of securing the DP World Tour’s Race to Dubai title this season, placing him among nine contenders for the crown.
To win the season-long race, Rahm requires a victory at the upcoming DP World Tour Championship for a fourth time, alongside favorable outcomes from Eugenio Chacarra and Rory McIlroy. Expressing surprise at having a shot at the title, he noted that the scenario provides extra incentive for the final event of the year.
The DP World Tour season concludes next week with the DP World Tour Championship, restricted to the top 50 available players in the Race to Dubai standings. Live coverage of all four rounds will be broadcast on Sky Sports Golf and Sky Sports Main Event.
