Big news for European golf fans—and for anyone who loves a good Ryder Cup showdown. Luke Donald has confirmed he's "delighted" that Jon Rahm will be available for selection in 2027, following the Spanish star's resolution of his dispute with the DP World Tour.
Rahm, 31, was a cornerstone of Europe's victorious campaign in Rome in 2023, and again in New York last September, under Donald's captaincy. But his eligibility for the historic Adare Manor match in Limerick—set to celebrate the Ryder Cup's centenary from 17-19 September 2027—had been in serious doubt. The two-time major champion had initially refused the conditional release offer accepted by eight other LIV Golf players, and even accused the DP World Tour of "extorting players" back in March. However, a deal struck earlier this month secured his membership and, crucially, his place in Europe's plans.
"It's not my job to tell Jon what to do, but I'm delighted that a resolution has happened and that he's available for the Ryder Cup team," Donald said ahead of the US PGA Championship. "Jon has proved how valuable he can be in a Ryder Cup. He's played four and done extremely well. So to have him available for selection is pretty cool."
Donald, who will become the first European to serve three consecutive terms as captain since Bernard Gallacher (1991-1995), knows exactly what Rahm brings to the locker room and the course. Since his debut at Le Golf National in 2018, Rahm has collected 10½ points and been part of a winning European side three times out of four. His foursomes record is nothing short of legendary: a perfect six points from six matches in the alternate-shot format. Even in Europe's heavy 19-9 defeat at Whistling Straits in 2021, Rahm was the team's top points scorer, a sign of the changing of the guard.
With Rahm back in the fold, Europe's home-soil dominance—they haven't lost on home turf since The Belfry in 1993—looks set to continue. For fans and players alike, having a clutch performer like Rahm available for the centenary match is a huge boost. And for anyone wearing the blue and gold, that's the kind of firepower that makes a captain's job a whole lot easier.