Jon Rahm Surpasses Golf's Elite in Earnings with Lavish LIV Golf Deal
In the world of professional golf, Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler currently dominate the official world rankings, but when it comes to financial rewards, another player has surged ahead to claim the title of the sport's best-paid athlete. Jon Rahm, the Spanish golfer who made a high-profile switch to the Saudi-backed LIV Golf tour, is now believed to be golf's top earner, thanks to a staggering contract and exclusive perks that include access to a Saudi royal private jet.
The Lucrative Move to LIV Golf
Rahm, aged 31, initially resisted the allure of LIV Golf during its first two seasons but ultimately joined ahead of the 2023 campaign. His decision proved to be incredibly profitable, with reports indicating that his deal is worth an astonishing £475 million, half of which was paid upfront. This move came after a successful career on the PGA Tour, where Rahm secured major victories at the U.S. Open and the Masters, along with multiple other tournament wins.
Since transitioning to LIV Golf, Rahm has continued to excel on the course. He claimed two wins in his debut season and led the league's points list in both 2024 and 2025. Already in the 2026 season, he has notched a victory in Hong Kong, earning $4 million (£2.97 million) in prize money. According to National Club Golfer, Rahm tops LIV Golf's all-time money list with over £65 million in earnings from tournaments alone.
Exclusive Perks and Benefits
Beyond the substantial prize money, Rahm's contract with LIV Golf includes a range of lavish benefits that set him apart from his peers. Reports from The Sun at the time of his signing revealed that his deal entitles him to use a Saudi royal private jet, along with other amenities such as private chefs, a personal assistant, and a share in a LIV Golf team. These perks underscore the tour's commitment to attracting top talent with unparalleled incentives.
Masters Opportunity and Player Reactions
The 2026 Masters presents another lucrative opportunity for Rahm, as he is one of only a handful of LIV Golf players in the field, alongside others like Bryson DeChambeau and debutant Tom McKibbin. Last year's tournament awarded a top prize of $4.2 million, which Rory McIlroy won after defeating Justin Rose in a playoff, securing his career grand slam.
McIlroy has been vocal in his criticism of players joining LIV Golf, particularly when big names began making the move in 2022. Reflecting on Brooks Koepka's decision to join the tour, McIlroy expressed surprise and disappointment, stating, "I think that's why I'm surprised at a lot of these guys because they say one thing and then they do another, and I don't understand that... it's pretty duplicitous on their part to say one thing and then do another thing." Koepka has since returned to the PGA Tour, with his move confirmed in December 2025.
Impact on Golf's Financial Landscape
Rahm's earnings highlight the shifting financial dynamics in professional golf, driven by LIV Golf's deep pockets and aggressive recruitment strategies. While McIlroy and Scheffler remain at the pinnacle of the sport in terms of rankings and traditional tour success, Rahm's deal demonstrates how alternative circuits are reshaping player compensation and career choices. As the golf world watches, the competition for both titles and treasure continues to intensify, with Rahm leading the charge in the earnings race.
