Jon Rahm breaks silence after withdrawing DP World Tour appeal

Jon Rahm has doubled down on his dispute with the DP World Tour, insisting he is “not asking for too much” despite withdrawing his appeal against the circuit’s sanctions.

Speaking after a third-round 64 at LIV Golf South Africa, Rahm made it clear he remains in negotiations with the DP World Tour but will not accept the current terms on offer.

Despite officially withdrawing his appeal earlier this month, the two-time major champion is still refusing to pay fines believed to exceed £2.25 million for playing in LIV Golf events without releases.

“We keep trying to talk with them and negotiate with them what the best outcome is for both of us,” Rahm told reporters at Steyn City on Saturday.

“They offered us a deal that I don't think was right, but if they changed it for me to play a minimum of four events… then I would sign.”

The Spaniard’s stance centres on the number of appearances required to maintain DP World Tour membership. 

LIV Golf superstar Rahm has taken issue with being asked to play more than the standard minimum.

He continued: “I don't think it's right that they're requiring people to play more golf than is already required… it doesn't seem like it should be a very difficult decision for them.”

Rahm also added he would be willing to comply if the requirement was reduced, stating: “If they just reduce it to four events, a lot of this gets cleared up.”

Rahm also reiterated his position on scheduling, saying he has no intention of exceeding his usual DP World Tour commitments. 

“I've never played more than four events for the DP World Tour… I think the most I played one year was five, and that's for special circumstances. I told them I'm not willing to play [more].”

He did, however, outline a potential return to Europe later in the season, adding: “I don't plan to play in Europe… but that stretch, I'll most likely play my four, and I want to be there. Obviously, I'm going to be in Spain. That's always going to be my highlight.”

Rahm concluded: “We're trying to figure it out, and we're trying our best, but I don't feel like I'm asking for too much. If they just reduce it to four events, a lot of this gets cleared up.”

The situation continues to cast uncertainty over Rahm’s long-term status with the Tour and future Ryder Cup eligibility, particularly after fellow LIV player Tyrrell Hatton accepted a separate agreement involving fines and additional appearances.

On the course, Rahm remains firmly in contention in South Africa. His third-round 64 moved him to 18-under-par, three shots behind leader Bryson DeChambeau heading into the final round at The Club at Steyn City.

While Rahm continues to chase victory in his last start before The Masters on 9 April, his message off the course is equally clear — he is open to compromise, but only on terms he believes are fair.