Jon Rahm, once the undisputed world number one on many golf courses, now finds himself in a new reality, according to current observations. Since his move to LIV Golf, his mainstream profile has changed – fewer PGA Tour starts, fewer world ranking points, fewer opportunities to compete against top fields. A new era is dawning for the Spanish major champion, or rather, it has already arrived.
However, at the start of the 2026 PGA Championship in Aronimink, Rahm showed that he hasn't forgotten how to play golf. He began the tournament with a 1-under 69, joining a record-sized field of early contenders. Despite the challenging conditions – wind, firm ground, and tricky greens made it extremely tough for all golfers – he delivered. Speaking of tough: The best score to par in Round 1 was the highest at a PGA Championship since 2008. It was really a battle out there!
Rahm's Battle and Strong Moments
What a rollercoaster for Rahm on Thursday! He scored an eagle with a sensational shot from the fairway on the 11th hole and chipped in for birdie on the par-3 8th. Moments that show the man can still deliver under major pressure. However, these highlights stand in contrast to the broader picture the golf world paints of him. Currently having slipped to World Ranking 20, Rahm seems aware that his place in the game is no longer what it once was. A great man on a small island, as one sports journalist aptly put it.
Between Old Form and New Reality
While Scottie Scheffler surged to the top of the PGA Championship with a 3-under 67, sharing the lead with six other golfers, Rahm is not only battling the course but also the altered rhythm of his career. The reduced visibility and less frequent competition against absolute top stars could impact his ranking long-term. Nevertheless, it's clear: At major championships, Rahm remains a name to be reckoned with. His opening at Aronimink impressively demonstrated this.
