JJ. Watt insists he would ‘physically force’ Jon Rahm to sign $600m LIV Golf contract

You can always count on a friend for sound advice. 

Jon Rahm is facing one of the biggest decisions of his life as he ponders his golf future. 

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Recent reports suggest the Masters champion has been offered a staggering $600 million deal to join LIV Golf and defect from the PGA Tour. 

With Rahm at a crossroads in his career, the Spaniard has received a few words of wisdom from his friend and neighbour, JJ. Watt. 

Watt, who recently invested in Burnley after retiring from the NFL, is family friends with Rahm and his wife.

The duo are part of an A-list group of Arizona-based friends including Cardinals tight end Zach Ertz and Olympic legend Michael Phelps. 

While Rahm and his camp are yet to address the rumours linking him with a move to the Saudi-backed league, Watt has offered his verdict on his pal's dilemma.

“If this number was correct, I would have driven to Jon’s house myself and used extreme physical force to ensure he signed the deal," Watt wrote on X, formerly Twitter. 

Speculation linking Rahm with a move to LIV Golf has intensified in recent weeks after his withdrawal from the inaugural TGL season, which has since been delayed until 2025.

“I am sad to confirm that I will not be participating in the first TGL season,” Rahm announced in a statement on X.

“While I still think it’s a great opportunity, right now it would require a level of commitment that I can’t offer. Best of luck to everyone (involved) and may the best team win!”

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Rory McIlory, who created the TGL enterprise in partnership with Tiger Woods, told reporters he was confident Rahm would remain a PGA Tour member.

"I spoke to Jon a couple days ago and would be very, very surprised if that were to happen," McIlroy said when quizzed on Rahm's withdrawal. "I'm pretty confident Jon is a PGA Tour player."

Rahm is an 11-time PGA TOUR winner, including major titles at the 2021 U.S. Open and this year’s Masters. 

The Spaniard holds 10 DP World Tour titles and has spent 52 weeks at world No. 1.

He was also part of the European Team’s decisive victory at this year’s Ryder Cup in Italy, compiling a 2-0-2 record.