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Jon Rahm Secures Ryder Cup Eligibility After DP World Tour Deal

BBC Sport •
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Luke Donald confirmed that Jon Rahm will be available for European Ryder Cup selection after resolving his dispute with the DP World Tour. The Spanish star's participation at Adare Manor in 2027 looked uncertain following his LIV Golf commitments and public criticism of tour officials earlier this year.

Donald expressed delight at having Rahm back in the fold, citing his proven track record in the biennial contest. Rahm contributed to Europe's victories in Rome 2023 and New York 2024, posting an impressive 10½ points since his 2018 debut. His perfect foursomes record of six wins from six matches makes him particularly valuable in the alternate-shot format.

The English captain faces uncertainty around LIV Golf's future after Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund announced it won't fund the league beyond 2026. Donald emphasized focusing on controllable factors, trusting vice-captain Edoardo Molinari to establish appropriate qualification criteria. Europe hasn't lost a home Ryder Cup since 1993, and Rahm's inclusion strengthens their bid to extend that remarkable run.

Donald will become the first European to serve three consecutive terms since Bernard Gallacher in the mid-1990s. Despite Rahm's earlier criticism of the DP World Tour, Donald downplayed any potential locker room tensions, suggesting that competitive fire ultimately benefits team unity. The 2027 contest marks the Ryder Cup's centenary celebration.