Jon Rahm's Ryder Cup participation is under threat after the Spaniard failed to follow teammate Tyrrell Hatton in settling a seven-figure fine with the European Tour Group for playing in LIV Golf events. Hatton is among eight players who have agreed to pay outstanding fines and withdraw appeals in exchange for releases to compete on LIV in 2026.
Luke Donald, expected to remain Europe's Ryder Cup captain for a third term, had hoped for resolution for both Hatton and Rahm ahead of the 2027 match at Adare Manor. The European Tour Group confirmed that Hatton, along with Laurie Canter, Tom McKibbin, Thomas Detry, Adrian Meronk, Victor Perez, Elvis Smylie and David Puig, have reached settlements. The group stated that the conditions provide additional value to the DP World Tour and benefit the entire membership, but stressed the releases are for 2026 only and not precedent-setting.
Rahm, a two-time major winner and key figure in Europe's last four Ryder Cup teams, remains in conflict with the European Tour Group. He has refused to pay fines, which could lead to an appeal hearing. If he loses, he would face suspension from the Ryder Cup, a fate that befell Lee Westwood, Sergio García and Ian Poulter, who resigned from the DP World Tour after losing appeals over fines. Rahm has yet to comment.
Rory McIlroy recently urged Rahm and Hatton to step up for Europe, referencing their criticism of American players being paid for the Ryder Cup. McIlroy said, 'We went really hard on the Americans about being paid to play the Ryder Cup. We also said we would pay to play in Ryder Cups. There's two guys that can prove it.'
