Jon Rahm Rodríguez, born in Barrika on 10 November 1994, emerged as a force in professional golf following a decorated collegiate career at Arizona State University. Known for a short backswing attributed to limited right ankle mobility from a clubfoot condition, he became the first Spanish golfer to win the U.S. Open and achieved a career-defining number-one ranking.
Early Development and Amateur Success
Introduced to golf by his father following the 1997 Ryder Cup, Rahm developed his skills at Club Deportivo Martiartu and Larrabea Golf Club. Under the instruction of Eduardo Celles, he refined a technical game that emphasized hitting fades. His early talent was evident in his 2010 Spanish Junior/Boys Championship victory and his 2011 European Boys' Team Championship win. By age 16, he moved to Madrid to attend IES Ortega y Gasset, preparing for his transition to international collegiate competition.
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Recruited by Tim Mickelson for the Arizona State Sun Devils in 2012, Rahm overcame initial language barriers to become one of the most prolific collegiate golfers in United States history. He earned first-team All-American honors and secured 11 individual titles, trailing only Phil Mickelson in school history. During this tenure, he held the number one spot in the World Amateur Golf Ranking for 60 weeks and became the first two-time winner of the Ben Hogan Award.
Professional Ascent and Major Victories
Upon turning professional in 2016, Rahm quickly secured victories on the PGA Tour. His performance at the 2018 Ryder Cup, marked by a singles win over Tiger Woods, signaled his competitive standing. He reached the world number-one ranking following the 2020 Memorial Tournament and successfully maintained that status for over 50 weeks. His major championship record includes the 2021 U.S. Open, where he became the first Spaniard to claim the title, and the 2023 Masters Tournament. He joined the LIV Golf League later in 2023.
Fast facts
- Born: 10 November 1994, Barrika, Spain
- College: Arizona State University (2012-2016)
- Major titles: 2021 U.S. Open, 2023 Masters Tournament
- Record: 60 weeks at number one in World Amateur Golf Ranking
- Professional debut: 2016
- Forbes 2024 earnings ranking: Second highest-paid athlete
Questions readers ask
How did Rahm's childhood foot condition affect his game?
He was born with clubfoot, resulting in a right leg 1.5 cm shorter than his left. He stated his short backswing was a direct result of limited right ankle mobility.
Which major championships has he won?
He won the 2021 U.S. Open and the 2023 Masters Tournament.
