The Ryder Cup is approaching, bringing with it an interesting debate over the inclusion of LIV Golf players. Rory McIlroy and Jon Rahm find themselves on opposite sides of the spectrum when it comes to this issue, offering different views that have sparked discussions within the golfing community.

The crux of the matter revolves around the eligibility of LIV players for the tournament. While McIlroy stands in support of Brooks Koepka’s place on the United States’ Ryder Cup team, despite his association with LIV Golf, he firmly believes that no LIV players should feature in the European team.

A ruling has been made that disqualifies LIV members who resigned from the DP World Tour from competing for Team Europe in the Ryder Cup. Consequently, notable European players such as Sergio Garcia, Ian Poulter, Henrik Stenson, and Lee Westwood, who played crucial roles in the 2021 contest, will be unable to participate.

Brooks Koepka, who joined LIV last year, is currently restricted from PGA Tour events. However, as a member of the PGA of America, Koepka remains eligible for the Ryder Cup, with major tournaments offering him and other Saudi circuit players the chance to earn qualification points.

Koepka’s recent triumph, securing his third PGA Championship and fifth major title, has earned the support of Rory McIlroy. Expressing his endorsement, McIlroy asserts, “I believe that Brooks deserves a spot on the United States team. His outstanding performance, ranking second in the US standings after just two counting events, is undeniable.”

Jon Rahm, however, takes a different standpoint. The Masters champion regrets the intrusion of politics into the event and emphasizes that the Ryder Cup should prioritize fielding the best players, regardless of their LIV Golf affiliation.

Expressing his disappointment, Rahm says, “It’s unfortunate that politics have overshadowed this great event. The Ryder Cup is about the best Europeans facing the best Americans, irrespective of LIV involvement. Talent and skill should be the sole criteria for selection.”

As the Ryder Cup draws near, the differing opinions of McIlroy and Rahm underscore the complex nature surrounding LIV Golf players’ participation. The final decision on their inclusion will undoubtedly shape the composition of the teams, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this fiercely contested competition.

Leon Osamor