With his third major triumph and first PGA Championship victory at Quail Hollow, Scottie Scheffler cemented his place as the best golfer in the world. Meanwhile, Jon Rahm was at the crossroads of history. After winning the U.S. Open in 2021 and the Masters in 2023, a victory would have put him just one victory away from achieving the elusive career Grand Slam.

On Sunday, Rahm tied for the lead after a strong effort, but his dreams were crushed by a late collapse over the last three holes, leaving him in eighth place. Though Rahm was disappointed and ranted about the same, he apologized immediately. But rather than further wallow in frustration, Rahm responded today with the kind of sportsmanship that defines true champions.

Jon Rahm’s graceful acknowledgment amidst heartbreak

Following his disappointing 2025 PGA Championship result, Jon Rahm resorted to social media to share his feelings. With the message, “Tough finish for me on Sunday but hats off to Scottie on an amazing win – always love the battle!” he posted a collage of moments from the competition. “Thanks to the PGA of America, all of the volunteers, fans, and everyone at Quail Hollow Club for putting on a great event. Taking lots of positives with me for the rest of the year, onwards!”

In spite of his own loss, Rahm acknowledged Scheffler’s victory in this message, which highlighted his sportsmanship. Rahm had previously spoken openly about his late-round difficulties, calling the encounter a “pretty fresh wound.” He thought back on the difficulties of the last few holes, referred to as the Green Mile, where he went bogey-double-double, finishing with a two-over 73 and tying for eighth place.

Rahm highlighted the positives despite the setback, saying, “I’m really happy I put myself in position and hopefully learn from this and give it another go in the U.S. Open.” His capacity to look on the bright side and keep an optimistic outlook struck a chord with both supporters and other athletes. Beyond this heartfelt message, Rahm’s form on the course tells an equally powerful story of consistency and resilience in majors.

Rahm among elite LIV golfers making major cuts

The 2025 PGA Championship performance by Jon Rahm wasn’t a solitary example of brilliance. Along with Bryson DeChambeau, Joaquin Niemann, and Tyrrell Hatton, he is one of only a few LIV Golf players qualified for both majors this season. Rahm’s impressive rounds of 75, 71, 70, and 69 at the Masters led to a tie for 14th position. He tied for eighth place at the PGA Championship, demonstrating his continued consistency. Despite the difficulties of switching to LIV Golf, these performances highlight Rahm’s capacity to compete at the greatest level.

Detractors have questioned the effect of LIV Golf on players’ readiness for important competitions. “My going to LIV and playing worse in majors had nothing to do with where I was playing the game of golf. My swing was simply not at the level it had to be for me to compete,” Rahm says, attributing his difficulties to swing problems rather than his tour allegiance.

Rahm’s openness and desire to get better reflect his passion for the game and his goal of winning the career Grand Slam. All eyes will be on Rahm as the season goes on to see if he can use these experiences to his advantage and win more games.