Fans of the European Ryder Cup team can be happy, considering the statements made by DP World Tour CEO Guy Kinnings regarding the selection of Ryder Cup players and the possibility for some individuals to compete in 2025 at Bethpage. Kinnings spoke to the media about eligibility criteria, aiming to resolve any uncertainties for individuals regarding the next Ryder Cup. He emphasized that an individual who is part of the DP World Tour and also competes in LIV Golf will have the opportunity to play, with, of course, consequences.
“If you look at eligibility criteria for 2023, then I think there has been a slight misconception,” Kinnings told BBC.
“The reality is, under the current rules, if a player is European, a member of the DP World Tour and abides by the rules – if you don’t get a release there are sanctions and you take those penalties – there is no reason why players who have taken LIV membership could not qualify or be available for selection.”
Guy Kinnings© Warren Little/Getty Images Sport
Individuals who compete in LIV Golf will have to be fined by the DP World Tour if they remain members of the European Tour. Kinnings emphasized that suspensions will continue and they have no intention of changing the current rules. After analyzing individuals, if Rahm and Hatton remain in the same position as before, they will have the chance to compete in the Ryder Cup.
It’s interesting that both golfers will have to compete in four DP World Tour events to maintain their membership status. If they fail to do so, they will face a substantial fine. Rahm and Hatton will receive a one-tournament ban for participating in LIV Golf Adelaide. It’s intriguing that the suspension could potentially occur at an event where they may not even intend to play. Kinnings believes that this isn’t a loophole in the rules.
Kinnings clarified that the situation isn’t a loophole but rather a matter of implementing longstanding rules. He emphasized that these rules have been in place for some time and have undergone thorough testing. The rules are applied uniformly to all members of the tour, underscoring the importance of understanding how they apply to each individual member.
Luke Donald has every reason to be pleased with this turn of events, knowing that this duo will be a huge boost for his team. Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton are two golfers that any team would desire. They showcased their qualities at last year’s Ryder Cup. The captain of the European team has expressed that this duo would be incredibly valuable, and he expects the situation to remain the same in the future.
Luke Donald© Getty Images Sport – Ross Kinnaird / Staff
Right after leaving the PGA Tour and interviewing LIV Golf, Jon Rahm talked about his appearance at the Ryder Cup in 2025. The Spaniard pointed out that his great desire is to perform there and help the team. The Spaniard also admitted that he is worried about the situation, aware that the rules change from day to day, and that he will potentially not be able to perform at the Ryder Cup.
“Am I concerned? Yeah, I hope I can be there,” Rahm said. “I hope I play well enough to earn my way there. And if I have to be picked, I hope I can get picked.
I want to be there. That’s definitely something I want to do and I don’t want to miss.”
Rory McIlroy’s stance on Jon Rahm
Rory McIlroy is one of those who has changed his stance towards LIV Golfers, primarily Jon Rahm. McIlroy and the 29-year-old Spaniard have had a great relationship for a long time. Despite being strongly against LIV Golf initially, McIlroy has gradually changed his views, now open to the idea of LIV Golfers returning to the PGA Tour.
Rory McIlroy© Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images Sport
McIlroy elaborated to Sky Sports, stating that Jon Rahm’s inclusion in Bethpage in 2025 will necessitate a revision of the European Tour’s Ryder Cup eligibility rules due to this decision. He expressed his desire to have Rahm on the next Ryder Cup team, acknowledging his talent, determination, and positive contribution as a teammate. McIlroy gave the respect for Rahm’s decision, admitting that individuals make choices based on what they believe is best for their career.
The upcoming Ryder Cup could bring plenty of excitement. The US team aims to disrupt the plans of the European team this year and capitalize on home-field advantage. Despite suffering defeat in Rome last year, the US team will be the favorites. The Europeans aim to replicate their previous success, aware that it will be a challenging task.
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