Donald pleased as Jon Rahm appeal clears way for Ryder Cup qualification

While appealing the fine following his defection to LIV, the Spaniard is free to play DP World Tour events.

Luke Donald of England on the 10th tee box during day one of the Amgen Irish Open Golf Championship at the Royal County Down. Pic: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

European Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald has welcomed Jon Rahm’s decision on Thursday to appeal the fines imposed on him by the DP World Tour following his defection to LIV last December. The move from the Spanish major winner clears the way for him to qualify for next season’s Ryder Cup, with Donald a relieved European captain.

While appealing the fine, Rahm is free to play DP World Tour events, including next week’s Spanish Open, one of three tournaments he needs to complete in to fulfil his minimum number of qualifying events. The appeal was lodged with DP World Tour ahead of Thursday’s noon deadline for entries.