dailyloe.com – Luke Donald has expressed his delight that Jon Rahm will be available for Ryder Cup selection. This follows Rahm settling his dispute with the DP World Tour.
Rahm, 31, played a key role in Donald’s European team’s victories in Rome in 2023 and New York in September 2024. Initially, he appeared ineligible for the Ryder Cup at Adare Manor in 2027.
Rahm had rejected an offer from the DP World Tour regarding conditional releases for LIV Golf events during the 2026 season. In March, he accused the tour of ‘extorting players’.
Earlier this month, Rahm reached an agreement with the DP World Tour that enabled him to retain his membership. This deal ensures his eligibility to compete against the United States from September 17-19, 2027.
Donald stated, “It’s not my job to tell Jon what to do, but [I’m] delighted that a resolution has happened and that he’s available [for] the Ryder Cup team.”
He added that Rahm has proven to be valuable in Ryder Cup competitions, having played four times and performed exceptionally well. Donald expressed excitement about Rahm’s availability for selection.
Donald will become the first European captain to serve three consecutive terms since Bernard Gallacher, who led the team between 1991 and 1995. Rahm’s presence is expected to strengthen a European side that has not lost at home since 1993.
Since his debut at Le Golf National in 2018, Rahm has earned 10½ points and been part of three winning teams. He holds an impressive record in foursomes, securing six points from six matches.
Rahm was Europe’s top points scorer during the 2021 Ryder Cup at Whistling Straits, despite the team’s heavy defeat. Donald mentioned that he aims to ensure all players are aligned for the competition.
He remarked, “I like to use the phrase even brothers fight sometimes. But deep down, they love each other, and the mission is pretty clear when we play a Ryder Cup, and that’s to win.”
