The Open: 'This is the most prestigious event in golf', says Rahm

Jon Rahm believes The Open Championship is the "most prestigious" event in golf.

The final major of the golf calendar is set to get underway this week, with Rahm looking to challenge the likes of Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Bryson DeChambeau for the Claret Jug.

The Spaniard has won the U.S. Open and the Masters so far in his career, but is yet to achieve victory at the Open. He went close in 2023, where he finished tied second at the event, six shots off winner Brian Harman.

He has been drawn alongside Xander Schauffele and JJ Spaun for the first round on Thursday.

Rahm said the history of the competition, paired with the venue changes, makes The Open very special.

"In my opinion, The Open Championship is the most prestigious event you can win in golf," said Rahm.

"For my understanding of the game and the history of the game, I think the Claret Jug is the most special one.

"There's an order to it, too, because it changes venues, so if you can win it in St Andrews, I don't think anything in golf can come close to that. Obviously, there's different ones that have a lot of significance as well.

"The Open to me, I think that's what it is. It's the home of golf. Golf started in this part of the world.

"It's the oldest championship we have, and that's what makes it so special - the type of golf we play, the links courses where, in theory, is meant to be played, the elements, the weather. It's quite unique.

"I don't think there's a word to describe it, but all together it's what makes it so special."

This is what The Open means. pic.twitter.com/XhLvCAXSNQ
— The Open (@TheOpen) July 15, 2025

Another event which is building excitement is the 2025 Ryder Cup. The tournament begins on September 28.

Rahm reiterated that the Ryder Cup is also on his mind when asked about the event.

"I don't know how many times I can answer yes to that question," Rahm added.

"Yeah, it's been on my mind. It's been on my mind [since] a year ago, and it will continue on my mind as long as I play golf in my career. So the Ryder Cup is always there.

"Obviously, when I wake up in the morning here, I'm thinking about this, but the Ryder Cup will always be on my mind."