Bernard Gallacher Calls for Rule Change to Allow Jon Rahm and LIV Golf Colleagues to Represent Europe in Ryder Cup
As the anticipation for the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage grows, the calls for Jon Rahm and his LIV Golf colleagues to be allowed to represent Europe have reached a fever pitch. Three-time Ryder Cup captain Bernard Gallacher has joined forces with Rory McIlroy in demanding a rule change that would make Rahm and other LIV Golf players eligible for selection.
Currently, Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton are among the European stars who are unable to participate in the Ryder Cup due to their affiliation with the breakaway LIV circuit. The rules stipulate that players must be active members of the DP World Tour to be considered for selection, leaving Rahm and his Legion XIII teammates on the sidelines.
Gallacher, who played in nine Ryder Cups and captained the European team three times in the 1990s, emphasized the importance of having Rahm and Hatton in the lineup. He believes that Europe must field its strongest team to have a chance at retaining the Ryder Cup trophy they won in Rome in 2024.
McIlroy echoed Gallacher’s sentiments, stating that Rahm’s presence on the team is crucial for Europe’s success. The Northern Irishman emphasized Rahm’s talent, tenacity, and importance as a teammate in the Ryder Cup.
While there is a growing consensus among players and fans that the rules should be amended to allow LIV Golf players to compete in the Ryder Cup, former Europe skipper Paul McGinley cautioned that there are still hurdles to overcome. The decision to change the eligibility rules for LIV players will require careful consideration to ensure fairness and maintain the prestige of the event.
As the debate continues, all eyes will be on the Ryder Cup advisory board to see if a resolution can be reached in time for the highly anticipated showdown at Bethpage in 2025.