Canada's Hughes says men's pro golf 'in sad place' as Rahm leaves for LIV

Canadian golfer Mackenzie Hughes said the men's professional golf drama of the past two years, featuring the Saudi-backed LIV Golf League poaching PGA Tour players with large sums of cash, has left the sport he loves in a "sad place."

"Fans want to see the best compete against each other. Instead, we are watching the top players split into separate camps," Hughes posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. "It is frustrating to watch."

Hughes' comments came one day after Jon Rahm, the reigning Masters champion and world No. 3, announced he was joining LIV. Rahm's salary on the breakaway circuit has been reported to be worth as much as $600 million US.

His departure could also help Hughes directly. The Canadian finished the 2023 season ranked 51st — one spot outside of guaranteed eligibility for the sport's signature events, which include increased purses and prestige, next season. Hughes could now have the opportunity to compete in all of those events without worrying about qualifying.

Men’s professional golf is in a sad place. The direction it's headed right now isn't healthy or good for the sport.<br><br>And I know many of you are upset with the recent developments - I would be too. <br><br>I had some thoughts I wanted to share