Rory McIlroy's ex-agent credits Jon Rahm’s ‘lack of form’ at majors to lack of ‘intensity’ on LIV Golf
Rory McIlroy's ex-agent, Chubby Chandler, believes Jon Rahm's recent struggles at majors are a result of the lack of intensity in LIV Golf. He added that Rahm is struggling to sharpen his game on the Saudi-backed circuit.
Andrew Chandler, also known as Chubby Chandler, is a former golfer turned sports management firm owner. He has managed many players, including Rory McIlroy, Louis Oosthuizen, Charl Schwartzel, and Darren Clarke.
Recently, Chandler appeared in an interview on the YouTube channel Tap It In. During the interview, he was asked about his perspective on Jon Rahm's dismal performance at the majors. He responded that both a lack of form and a mental block were affecting Rahm's performance outside of LIV Golf.
"I think that he's finding it hard to get his game sharp where he's playing. I think he's a guy that thrives on intensity. And the last thing you could describe LIV Events as is 'intense.' Even though they are playing for that much cash. And even though on a Sunday the top guys are intense and trying to win.
He clarified that he would not call LIV an exhibition, citing Sergio Garcia's win last week at Valderrama. However, he felt Jon Rahm's case was different, as he needed far more intensity.
"I would think Sergio would rank his win on Sunday in the top five he's ever won. For him to win in his home country in a big tournament and beat a good field. Because we can't argue with LIV. They're good fields, aren't they? Good people playing.
"But I think Rahm needs it to be a bit more intense. Even when he was on the PGA Tour and he was winning the Masters and this, that, the other, he has an intensity to his game. And I would say if that's missing, he's finding it difficult to maybe get up for it, might not be quite the word, but I'm not sure the music sits well with him. And it just doesn't seem to take on the vibe of a LIV event.
Speaking of the ongoing Open Championship, Rahm is faring well so far. He shot 1-under 70 in the second round on Friday, July 19. He is aggregating at 1-over after 36 holes and is tied for 13th at eight strokes behind.
When will Jon Rahm tee off at the Open Championship, Round 3?
Jon Rahm is paired with Marcel Siem for the third round of the Open Championship. The duo will tee off on Saturday, July 20, at 9:20 am ET.
The third round of the Open will start on Saturday with Darren Fichardt and Tommy Morrison teeing off at 3:55 am. Leader Shane Lowry is paired with Daniel Brown and will begin their round at 10:45 am. Currently, Shane Lowry has a two-stroke lead at Royal Troon at 7-under. Daniel Brown and Justin Rose are tied for second at 5-under.