Jon Rahm has kicked off 2025 in fine form, once again proving why he stands among the titans of world golf. After a stellar 2024 that saw him crowned LIV Golf’s individual champion, the “Lion of Barrika” has returned to the competitive stage with a blend of elegance, power, and consistency that has fans and pundits buzzing with excitement. From his DP World Tour debut in Dubai to his first three LIV Golf outings in Riyadh, Adelaide, and Hong Kong, Rahm is carving out a path that promises another unforgettable year. Here’s a look at his brilliant start to the season.
His Debut at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic
Rahm’s 2025 campaign began with a bittersweet note at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, held January 16-19, a Rolex Series event on the DP World Tour marking his first appearance at this prestigious tournament. At Emirates Golf Club, Rahm faced an elite field including Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood but fell short of making the cut. Debuting his new Odyssey Ai-ONE #24 Slant putter, Rahm showed flashes of brilliance despite the outcome.
Beyond the result, his presence in Dubai was a statement of intent. Committed to maintaining his eligibility for the 2025 Ryder Cup, Rahm chose this event as his starting point to meet DP World Tour requirements. “It’s a special place for me, full of great memories,” he said of Dubai, where he previously won the DP World Tour Championship in 2017, 2019, and 2022. This opener reaffirmed his passion for competition and showcased his ability to adapt to a demanding schedule after a well-earned break.
Riyadh: The Power of Legion XIII
On February 7, Rahm leapt into LIV Golf 2025 at the season opener in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. As captain of Legion XIII, he led his team to a commanding victory, setting a first-round scoring record and exemplifying leadership in a format that celebrates both individual and collective prowess. Individually, Rahm shone with consistent rounds, finishing among the tournament’s top performers and laying a strong foundation for another dominant LIV season. His poise under pressure during an event that marked LIV Golf’s FOX Sports debut was yet another testament to his winning mindset.
Adelaide: Resilience and Class in Australia
From February 21-23, Rahm took on The Grange Golf Club in Adelaide for LIV Golf’s second event. Facing a challenging layout and a passionate crowd, the Spaniard displayed his resilience. Though victory eluded him—Joaquín Niemann claimed the title with a final-round 65—Rahm finished sixth at -12, highlighted by a standout 66. His long game was impeccable, and his 14 birdies placed him among the leaders in that category. This top-10 in Adelaide solidified his early-season form and underscored his ability to stay competitive even when the putter wasn’t at its sharpest.
Hong Kong: A Display of Consistency
The third LIV Golf event, held March 7-9 at Hong Kong Golf Club, saw Rahm elevate his game further. With a stellar 64 (-6) on day two, the Basque star posted a -11 total, securing a tie for sixth alongside big names. This marked his 17th consecutive under-par round in LIV Golf, leaving him just three shy of Bryson DeChambeau’s record (20). Rahm topped the field in greens in regulation (79.63%) and notched 14 birdies, proving his game is firing on all cylinders. “I feel good, the game is solid,” he said post-tournament—and rightly so: with 53.50 points, he sits second in the LIV Golf standings, trailing only Hong Kong winner Sergio García.
A Bright Future Ahead
With four tournaments under his belt in 2025—one on the DP World Tour and three in LIV Golf—Jon Rahm is sending a resounding message: his hunger for success remains insatiable. His season start melds the surgical precision that won him the 2023 Masters with the maturity of a veteran adept at navigating a global schedule. From Dubai to Hong Kong, Rahm has showcased versatility, leadership, and consistency that make him a favorite wherever he tees it up.
Next up is LIV Golf Singapore (March 14-16), where he finished tenth last year and will now aim to climb higher. With majors and the Ryder Cup on the horizon, this 2025 kickoff is not just promising—it’s a warning to rivals: the “Lion of Barrika” is roaring louder than ever. Spanish fans and golf enthusiasts worldwide have every reason to be thrilled for what lies ahead. Let the show go on!