Hatton’s decision to join the Saudi-backed league marks a significant shift in his career

Tyrrell Hatton has recently made headlines by joining the LIV Golf League, a decision significantly influenced by Jon Rahm’s earlier move to the Saudi Arabia-funded circuit. This transition for the 32-year-old English golfer, a key figure in the last three European Ryder Cup teams, underscores the growing appeal of the LIV Golf League among top-tier golfers. Hatton, who is set to participate in the upcoming Masters tournament, acknowledges the importance of his performance in this year’s majors to secure his long-term presence in golf’s most prestigious events.

Hatton’s deliberation over joining LIV Golf came to a head during the Dubai Desert Classic, culminating in a reported £50m deal. The decision was not made lightly, with Hatton seeking counsel from numerous sources to weigh his options. Ultimately, the opportunity to join Rahm’s Legion XIII team played a crucial role in his choice. The partnership between Hatton and Rahm, particularly their successful collaboration at the Ryder Cup, hinted at the potential benefits of such a move.

The financial aspect, although notable, was not the sole motivator for Hatton. The appeal of being part of a team and participating in a global tour was equally compelling. However, Hatton is aware of the challenges and uncertainties associated with joining LIV Golf, including the potential impact on his ability to compete in future majors due to the lack of regular world ranking points on the LIV circuit.

Despite the controversy surrounding LIV Golf and the accusations of ‘sportswashing’ against Saudi Arabia, Hatton emphasizes the less hostile environment compared to when the league first launched. He even took the step of deleting his social media to avoid negativity surrounding his decision.

One of the logistical challenges Hatton faces with LIV Golf’s 54-hole shotgun starts is the disruption to his pre-game routine. More significantly, the move to LIV Golf poses a threat to his eligibility for future majors, necessitating a strong performance in this year’s tournaments to secure ranking points.

Hatton’s aspirations extend beyond LIV Golf, with hopes to continue competing in European Tour events and retaining a spot on Europe’s Ryder Cup team. As Hatton prepares for the Masters and the rest of the season, his career trajectory remains a focal point of interest, showcasing the evolving landscape of professional golf amid the rise of the LIV Golf League.