LIV Golf commentator ripped to shreds over 'changes nothing' Jon Rahm statement

LIV commentator Arlo White has drawn criticism from golf fans after suggesting Jon Rahm's departure from the breakaway circuit "changes nothing" about the league's prospects of continuing in a revamped form in 2027.

Rahm's future has been the subject of speculation for months, but his lawyer told a US bankruptcy court on 7 September that the two-time major champion deemed the proposed terms for a revamped LIV Golf as "unacceptable". 

John Beck told the hearing that Rahm, 31, and his representatives are now in "advanced discussions for a consensual separation agreement". 

The golfer and his team are hoping to strike a deal before the next hearing on 15 November. 

Reacting to the news of Rahm's departure, White wrote on X: "It was a pleasure watching this man compete. 

"He is fierce. Can't blame him for doing the right thing for himself, right now."

White added that while it was "a blow to lose such a talent" it "changes nothing" and appears to believe LIV Golf will be back next season. 

"I will miss Legion XIII though, a very cool brand," he said.

Some X users described White as "delusional" for making such a statement.

"LIV might as well just pack up and hang out the closed sign," one wrote.

Another added: "Changes nothing? Don't think so mate. You honestly believe Hatton, Joaco, or any other relevant player is going to stick it out for less guaranteed money or smaller purses and not get recouped for every penny they signed for originally? Wow…you're naive."

@AndyStahlman added: "Nobody is going to finance a league without him, with Bryson on the fence, and about half of the other guys going to the DP World Tour. The league is dead. Give it up."

Bryson DeChambeau makes fresh move

While Jon Rahm's departure from LIV Golf has been confirmed, Bryson DeChambeau has yet to clarify his own future with the breakaway circuit.

Lawyers representing the American have sought clarity over his contract and whether he can negotiate with other tournament organisers and sponsors.

The Telegraph reported that DeChambeau's management team have contacted the DP World Tour about potential playing opportunities in 2027.

DeChambeau has already committed to playing the Nedbank Golf Challenge in South Africa this December, marking his first regular DP World Tour appearance in almost six years.

However, the report suggests the event at Sun City, hosted in honour of golf legend Gary Player, may not necessarily be a one-off.

There is currently no indication that DeChambeau intends to become a DP World Tour member, meaning further appearances would not necessarily signal a departure from LIV Golf.

Players have until the end of this month to take up DP World Tour membership for 2027.

Which players are leaving LIV Golf?

LIV's potential 2027 roster is shaping up. 

On 6 October, Sergio Garcia was told that his LIV Golf contract had been terminated, per his request.

Garcia could still sign a new contract to play for LIV 2.0, but it appears the Spaniard would like to end his time with the venture in favour of attempting to return to the European Ryder Cup team in 2027. 

His former teammate, Davig Puig, has also confirmed that he will leave LIV Golf. 

He told reporters during the Spanish Open: "It’s a decision I’ve made. I hope to play the European Tour next year, which I really enjoy, with a fuller schedule.”

Poland's Adrian Meronk also appears destined for the exit door. 

According to Polish journalist Jacek Person, Meronk has "no intention of extending his contract with LIV Golf". 

Elsewhere, Golf Digest have reported that Cameron Smith was also among a group of players, that included Matthew Wolff, Ben An, Marc Leishman and Harold Varner III to ask for termination of his contract.