Rory McIlroy says it's 'hard' to 'criticize' Jon Rahm for LIV move, calls for Ryder Cup team rule changes

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In perhaps the biggest blow to the PGA Tour, defending Masters champion Jon Rahm announced on Thursday on Fox News Channel that he joined LIV Golf.

Rahm had previously been critical of the league, even once saying that $400 million would not change his lifestyle. However, amid rumors that an offer reached $600 million, Rahm is off to the Saudi-funded league.

At the time of the decision, Rahm ranked third in the world, behind only Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy, the latter of whom has been adamant in his distaste for LIV.

However, when news of Rahm's decision broke, he seemed to soften his stance and understand where Rahm was coming from.

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Rory McIlroy, left, and Jon Rahm of Team Europe celebrate following victory with a 16 and a half to 11 and a half win following the Sunday singles matches of the 2023 Ryder Cup at Marco Simone Golf Club on Oct. 1, 2023 in Rome. (Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

"It's hard to sit here and criticize Jon because of what a great player he is and the experiences I've had with him. All I would say is that I'll be disappointed to not play against him more regularly in the future," McIlroy said.

"I am going to miss competing against him week-in-week-out," he added. "He is such a good player, he's got so much talent. He is so tenacious, and a great teammate at the Ryder Cup. I have nothing but good things to say about Jon. I respect the hell out of him as a golfer.

"He seems like he wants to live his life the right way. He wants to be a good dad, he wants to be a good husband. You can't judge someone for making a decision that they feel is the best thing for