English golfer Justin Rose has openly attributed his recent career resurgence to his decision to reject overtures from the Saudi-backed LIV Golf circuit four years ago, a choice he feels has been thoroughly vindicated by his performances.
Historic Victory at Torrey Pines
Rose secured the 13th PGA Tour title of his illustrious career on Sunday, triumphing at the Farmers Insurance Open held at Torrey Pines. His victory was marked by a tournament record score, showcasing a return to peak form that contrasts sharply with the slump he experienced in 2022.
Validating the Decision to Stay
Reflecting on his choice to remain with the established tours while contemporaries like Lee Westwood and Ian Poulter defected to LIV Golf, Rose expressed profound satisfaction. He emphasised that his core career ambitions—competing among the world's elite and chasing major championships—are only attainable through the PGA and European Tours.
"I feel like my career goals have only been attainable by staying on the European Tour and the PGA Tour because access to them is not possible the other way," the 45-year-old stated during a press conference. "I want to play in and among the best players in the world; that's what keeps me motivated, keeps me hungry, keeps me pushing."
Rose admitted that the lucrative alternative offered by LIV Golf would have been an easy path, but it failed to excite him or provide the competitive platform he craves. "I always felt my childhood self wouldn't feel very good about making that decision and giving up on those dreams," he confessed.
Major Championship Near-Misses
The golfer's conviction has been bolstered by his performances in major tournaments over the past 18 months. He finished tied for second at the 2024 Open Championship and lost a dramatic play-off to Rory McIlroy at last year's Masters Tournament. These near-misses, Rose believes, directly validate his decision to spurn LIV Golf.
"I've been sniffing and knocking on the door for a couple of majors since those decisions have been made, and those moments did validate that decision," he remarked. "It's good to see people wanting to play where it motivates them to be their best."
Future Ambitions and Ryder Cup Role
Rose's recent success, including a win at the FedEx St Jude Championship in August and his pivotal role in helping Europe retain the Ryder Cup last September, has reignited his belief in capturing a second major title. His 2013 US Open victory remains his sole major win, but he is now more determined than ever to add to that tally.
"Majors is where I have my attention, for sure," Rose added. "I've achieved a lot in the game but I've achieved a lot of it just once, so a multiple of anything I've achieved would be great."
He outlined the ultimate childhood dream of winning all four major championships, acknowledging it seems a distant goal but one within reach given his recent form. "If you think of some of the results I've had in the last year or 18 months, I'm not that far away so I may as well keep believing," he concluded, signalling a golfer reborn and refocused on the highest prizes in the sport.
