Nashville, a city that never saw a legionnaire, witnessed the dominance of Jon Rahm’s LIV Golf team as they lifted the team trophy. The celebration was in full swing, particularly with the impressive victory of Tyrrell Hatton, who made his debut in the league. Rahm, who initially pressured the English golfer, eventually settled for third place, securing the LIV Golf team’s third title and a record score of 40 under par, surpassing the Crushers by 5 strokes.
Rahm started strong, making two birdies on the first two holes and another on the 4th. As Sunday unfolded, he narrowed the gap, getting within two shots, but a drone that landed on his figure during his backswing on the 6th hole disrupted his momentum.
Rahm became frustrated: “It’s just that it’s in every tournament. You have to get used to it right at the moment of the backswing. Those drones at all hours,” he exclaimed. Despite recovering from the setback with a chip shot on the par-5 7th hole, he couldn’t keep pace with Hatton, who was already in control.
Hatton proved to be a very effective golfer, making precise shots to the green and showcasing his magic on the first nine holes. He made four birdies thanks to accurate second shots from advantageous positions and fewer errors than the rest. With nine holes left, he sealed the tournament, sinking a four-meter putt to extend his lead to six strokes. The final nine holes were interrupted by a 22-minute water delay.
The battle for second place focused on Jon Rahm, who fought with determination. Rahm shot a 68, finishing third along with DeChambeau, Niemann, and Westwood. He narrowly missed a putt on the par-5 18th, but still has a good chance to perform well at the next stop in Valderrama.
“He’s a very competitive golfer. He’s been impressive, especially after Saturday’s six birdies in the last seven holes. He’s won on the DP World Tour, the PGA Tour, and now here. He’s a great friend and I’m very happy for him,” Jon Rahm said after congratulating Hatton with champagne.
The other Spanish golfers finished outside the top 10. Sergio García (68) and Eugenio López Chacarra (70) finished 18th, while David Puig, who had an incredible year, shot 75 strokes and finished 51st.