Jon Rahm’s masterful performance at Jack Nicklaus’ Memorial Golf Tournament dominated a strong field and won by a comfortable margin over runner up, Ryan Palmer.
During the “spectatorless” four day competition that included the best players in the world, the swashbuckling Spaniard was able to eclipse some by as many as 20 strokes! Rahm’s rounds of 69,67,68,(73/75) for a total of 277/279 were more than enough to claim the prestigious Memorial title, for his 4th PGA Tour victory, and propel him to the top spot in the world of golf!
The win was highlighted by the shot of the tournament during the final round, a hole out from a nearly impossible position on the par three 16th hole. Faced with a difficult lie in the greenside rough, and probably hoping just to get up and down, Rahm, hit a fabulous flop shot which landed just inches on the green, and rolled into the cup for a birdie. The remarkable and timely shot gave him a five-stroke lead at the moment! Jon, who seems to have a flair for dramatic finishes, (60-foot eagle on 18 to win the 2017 Farmer’s at Torrey Pines,) later said “It was the best golf shot of his life.” The chip-in turned out to be a source of drama though! It was later reviewed by the rules committee and determined that the ball had settled down when he was addressing it. Although he was assessed a two shot penalty for the ball moving, ultimately it did not affect the outcome of the tournament.
Being one of the youngest ever to become the number one player in the world is a remarkable achievement, but there is something else that makes this an even greater story!!
By becoming the top-ranked player in golf, he proved that belief in oneself, determination and hard work can overcome any obstacle to realize your dream. The real story is not just about a man with a fierce competitive spirit, talent, and fire in his belly who has achieved the ranking of the best player in the world.
The story is about a twenty-five year old from the small town of Barrika, on the north coast of Spain, who has overcome many early challenges in his life, multiple surgeries, and limited mobility, who believed in his dream, and developed into the top player in the game today!
Jon Rahm has channeled his passion for the game of golf, his drive, hard work, ability to adapt, and laser focus, to reach the pinnacle of his profession.
I had the good fortune of spending some time with this remarkable young man. During the PGA Tour Genesis Open at Riviera Country Club in Los Angeles, Rahm took the time to talk about his background and golf game, as well as his connection and support for people with disabilities. It struck me at that time to share in the belief that he was destined for greatness, in golf and in life.
It seems that Jon has had to overcome some obstacles of his own on the way to success and stardom. Born with a disability that would limit most people, he has worked hard throughout his life and has earned his place on tour. He was quick to acknowledge a caring and supportive family, and an inner belief and drive, as the two most important factors.
Following a fabulous amateur career, he has already claimed 12 worldwide professional golf titles, earned the respect of his peers, and captured the hearts of millions of fans from all corners of the golf world. His mission to develop a total game of power, control and skill has come to fruition! Look for Jon to contend every week, especially on difficult tracks, and in Major Championships.
At the same time, he is a good person! He is very passionate about giving support and inspiration to others who wish to accomplish great things or simply live a better life, regardless of limitations or challenges they might face.
He offered several examples and inspiring thoughts that exposed the core of who he is and how he was able to rise to the level of an elite player on the PGA Tour at the age of 25.
He said, “I understand when someone tells you you cannot do something”. “I have seen people without arms, or legs, and disabilities, put in the effort, adapt, and play golf and other sports. Overcoming his own challenge which made it difficult just to walk, Jon said “ If you believe in yourself, anything is possible”. He has been in an environment in the past where he has inspired others and has been equally inspired and motivated by them as well.
“We are all a product of our environment!” This set of circumstances has created a person with a great appreciation for the talent, the opportunity, and support he has, and built the strength of character it takes to be a great champion in the sport, or life in general. I believe Jon Rahm has what it takes inside to accomplish great things in golf and in his lifetime, whatever his future holds.
“If you think you can, you can! You must believe in yourself! If you do, others will believe in you, and you can accomplish great things”. These were a few of his comments that told the story of his drive to overcome his own personal challenges and follow his heart and dream to become a Professional Golfer. I was moved by his concern for people with disabilities and his general caring nature for others.
It was also interesting, before, during, and after our talk, how he made sure everyone who was with him, was comfortable, well taken care of, and not inconvenienced by his other obligations, including our discussion. He is always very considerate, and it is apparent how important his wife Kelley and his family are to him. You sometimes see things behind the scenes that tell you a lot about a person. Sometimes not so good!…. In this case, during this encounter and from past observation, I see a humble individual with the heart, soul, and character of a champion. Not to mention a player with power, skill, and great total golf game. I believe Jon Rahm will fulfill his dream of being one of the world’s best all-time players, and have many championships in his future, including the upcoming Majors.
He said “I am an Olde School soul in the sense that I am all feel, and go with what I feel at the moment” “and I have a swing and game built for the modern game to maximize distance and the new technology.”
Jon Rahm reminds us all so much of Seve Balesteros. He mirrors Seve’s spirit, love of the game, passion for life and excellence, yet with more power and control. I believe his game is built for winning golf tournaments, especially Majors!
Keep your eye on Jon. At the very least, cheer for him. He is a solid player, exiting to watch, and a very good person with a big heart.!
Career Highlights: *Won 12 World Professional championships
- 4 PGA Tour wins in first four years on tour
- 2017 Farmers Insurance Open Champion
- 2018 Career Builders Challenge Champion
- 2019 Zurich Classic Champion
- 2020 Nationwide Memorial Champion
- 5-time runner up finisher
- Ranked 5th on tour overall and in scoring average
Amateur Highlights:
- 2014 and 2015 Spanish Amateur Champion
- Won the 2014 World Amateur Championship, breaking Jack Nicklaus’scoring record!
- Won 11 collegiate Titles while attending Arizona State
- 2015, 2016 Ben Hogan Award winner, ( best player in collegiate golf).
- Winner of the 2016 Jack Nicklaus award, Division I top collegiate golfer
- Ranked World’s Number one amateur for 60 weeks in 2015-201
- Won the 2015 NCAA San Diego regional during his junior season.
- Winner of the 2015 Mark H. McCormick Medal
Although Jon Rahm’s power, control, and accuracy were solid all week, he won Jack Nicklaus’ Nationwide Memorial Tournament because of his great play around the green on the final holes!
One of Jon’s most important keys to developing a solid short game is to focus on distance control. “Confidence in your ability to control speed and distance is the most important skill in the game”
A simple way to improve your FEEL for distance around the green is to practice a simple three ball drill. Start by using a putter. Hit a short, medium, and long putt without a specific target, increasing the length of the stroke each time, back and forth across the green. Later, put three tees in the green at 10, 20, and 30 feet as targets, and repeat the sequence, using this method of refining your touch. Next do the same three ball distance drill with a seven or 8 iron, gaining a FEEL for important chip-and-run shots. Then repeat the same sequence with a wedge.
This simple exercise will give you a feel for distance for a variety of shots you may face during a round, and give you the confidence and ability to start scoring better. Instead of pounding balls, practice playing and distance control. It will pay off in lower scores!
For more on Jon Rahm and short game tips complimentary of Golf Digest Magazine, go to www.oldeschoolgolfschool.com, Facebook, or Instagram to view the complete video interview with Jon and this weeks putting tip (feel distance control)
Play Well. Have fun!
Robert M. Kotowski, PGA
Director of Instruction, Olde School Golf School
California Blind and Disabled Golf Association
Vision Press
Santa Barbara Hickory Golf Classic
Catalina Island Golf Course
Zaca Creek Golf Course
805.698.6224 bob@oldeschoolgolfschool.com