PGA Tour star Jon Rahm has joined Saudi-backed LIV Golf

In an industry-shocking exit from the PGA Tour, golf sensation Jon Rahm officially joined up with the Saudi-backed LIV Golf league on Thursday. The announcement comes after many rumors that Rahm was preparing to sign off on the agreement.

On Thursday, Rahm, who won the Masters in April and is ranked third in the world, told Fox News’ Brett Baier, «The growth that LIV Golf has brought to the game is something with a ton of potential and something I’m really excited about.»

The relocation is the latest high-profile development in the lengthy and turbulent history of the PGA Tour and LIV Golf. The two leagues have until December 31 to decide whether to proceed with their proposed merger.

The golf industry is abuzz with suspicion that the arrangement with Rahm is part of LIV’s effort to put pressure on the PGA Tour to approve the merger.

The PGA Tour declined to comment on the announcement of Rahm’s contract. A representative for Rahm also declined to comment. Another law firm representing Rahm did not immediately reply to a request for comment.