Rahm Secures 2023 Masters and Leads European Charge

At just 28 years of age, Jon Rahm is already considered one of the top golfers in the world. The burly Basque golfer is halfway to a career Grand Slam, having already secured victories in two of the toughest major tournaments: the US Open and The Masters.

In 2019, Rahm made his major breakthrough with an exciting win at America’s national championship, the US Open, by holing a spectacular curling putt across the 18th green at Torrey Pines. Rahm’s emotions were evident as he punched the air in celebration. His victory made him the first European golfer ever to win the US Open, a feat that left him humbled and proud.

“It is a pretty good duo of majors,” Rahm reflected on his achievements while wearing his new Green Jacket. “The US Open is about as hard a test as you’re ever going to find.”

Rahm’s emotions at Augusta on Sunday were equally palpable because he knew that his glorious victory coincided with the 66th anniversary of the birth of the great Severiano Ballesteros. It was Seve who inspired another two-times winner of The Masters, Jose Maria Olazabal. Then came Sergio Garcia, and now Spain has Rahm, who might just turn out to be the best of them all.

Rahm’s win at The Masters was equally impressive, coming from behind and chasing down Brooks Koepka in horrid weather conditions. Rahm’s ability to hit fairway after fairway and maintain composure while cheers echoed from all parts of the Augusta National was a testament to his skill and determination. Rahm’s final Seve-style par at the last, after tangling with the trees, was a fitting end to a brilliant performance. Rahm won by four strokes, remaining composed as he claimed his Green Jacket.

Rahm is unstoppable when he’s in his groove. Already, Europe has found their talisman and lead personality for the upcoming Ryder Cup against the United States in Rome. Rahm’s sustained excellence this year is compelling, having won four events this season, including the US Open and The Masters.

Rahm’s sustained excellence is sure to make him a favourite for the next major, the PGA at Oak Hill in May. The New York course could suit his game, and Rahm’s ability to dominate the field from tee to green in all weathers is sure to come in handy.

However, Rahm is keeping his feet firmly on the ground, warning against complacency, “Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. I mean, it would be amazing. It would be great. Not many people have been able to do it, and to be able to finish it out and close out and do a Grand Slam would be absolutely amazing.”

Rahm’s humility is a refreshing change from the bravado often found in the world of golf. He has made it clear that he is committed to improving his game and working hard to achieve his goals.

As a child, Rahm dreamed of playing professional football for Athletic Bilbao. But when his dad introduced him to golf at the age of 10, his life took a new direction. Rahm’s golf career has gone from strength to strength, and he’s now one of the most recognizable names in the sport.

Rahm’s rise to fame has been remarkable, given his relatively short career in professional golf, and he’s sure to be leading the European charge in this year’s Ryder Cup in Rome. The Europeans are somewhat devoid of stars but Rahm is certainly an exception, and along with the performance around Augusta of Viktor Hovland, captain Luke Donald is sure to carry some hope forward into the rest of Major season.