Rahm’s Ryder Cup Fate Hinges on Donald’s Wildcard Decisions
Jon Rahm’s name is once again making headlines as the 2025 Ryder Cup looms, and the big question is whether the Spanish star will make the trip to Bethpage as part of Team Europe. Rahm, who was one of the heroes of Europe’s 2023 victory in Rome, has found himself in an unusual position this time. After joining LIV Golf in late 2023, he no longer earns Official World Golf Ranking points from those events, which means his chances of automatic qualification have vanished.
The only way Rahm can secure his place is through one of captain Luke Donald’s six wild-card picks. And while Rahm admits that Donald has been texting him — just as he’s been in contact with other potential picks — he insists there’s nothing he can confirm or deny about his selection chances. Donald’s strategy seems to involve keeping his cards close to his chest, likely waiting until late August, after the PGA Tour Playoffs, before making his final calls.
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In Rome two years ago, Rahm was a rock for Team Europe, earning three points from four matches and going unbeaten. That form alone would normally guarantee him a spot. But with the LIV Golf wrinkle, his situation is complicated. Still, Rahm’s performances in majors and his stature in the game make him one of the likeliest names on Donald’s shortlist.
Europe’s core for 2025 is already strong. Rory McIlroy, Tommy Fleetwood, Tyrrell Hatton, Viktor Hovland, Ludvig Åberg, Robert MacIntyre, Shane Lowry, Sepp Straka, Justin Rose, and likely Matt Fitzpatrick appear safe. That leaves two slots open, and competition is fierce. Some are campaigning for rising talents like Nicolai or Rasmus Højgaard, others see Harry Hall as a standout due to his putting brilliance, and veterans like Sergio Garcia remain in the conversation.
For Rahm, there’s also the wider LIV Golf picture to consider. He hopes changes will be made so LIV events can offer world ranking points, perhaps by adding a fourth round or expanding the league to accommodate cuts. He sees multiple ways the format could evolve while keeping LIV’s team-based identity intact.
While Europe’s final decisions are still weeks away, it’s clear Rahm’s fate rests in Donald’s hands. His track record and star power make him hard to overlook, but Donald is tasked with balancing form, experience, and course fit against the intense backdrop of an away Ryder Cup in New York. Until then, Rahm will keep playing, keep talking with the captain, and—at least publicly—keep the suspense alive.
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