Rolex Testimonee Jon Rahm chimes in on the 44th Ryder Cup.

The Ryder Cup is a renowned and storied golf tournament that has its origins dating back to 1927. It is a biennial competition that brings together teams from Europe and the United States. Each team, consisting of a dozen players, is led by experienced captains who play a pivotal role in fostering team chemistry and emphasizing the importance of team spirit above all else. The ultimate goal for these teams is to compete over three days for the prestigious Samuel Ryder Trophy. The Ryder Cup alternates its host between the PGA of America and Ryder Cup Europe. In 2023, the tournament took take place at the Marco Simone Golf &amp; Country Club, which is conveniently located just outside of Rome, Italy. This time around, the event ran from 29th September to 1st October 2023.
What makes The Ryder Cup truly special is its focus on tradition, teamwork, and sportsmanship. These values align with Rolex's own defining philosophy, which is why the Swiss watchmaker has been actively involved with the game of golf for nearly 60 years. The tournament is an embodiment of the collective effort, where some of the most skilled champions in the golfing world channel their individual talents for the greater achievement of the team. Despite the fierce competition on the course, there is a deep sense of respect between opponents, and the tournament places a premium on intergenerational solidarity and camaraderie. After all, The Ryder Cup is considered one of golf's most prestigious and sought-after prizes. Rolex initially became the Official Timekeeper of Team Europe in 1995, a partnership that exemplified the brand's values of respect and integrity. The brand has since evolved to become a Worldwide Partner in all editions of the competition, both in Europe and the United States. Additionally, Rolex serves as the Presenting Partner of the weekly Ryder Cup Points Standings, which play a crucial role in determining player qualification for this prestigious event. This enduring partnership underscores Rolex's commitment to the sport of golf and its shared values with The Ryder Cup.

Jon Rahm in action

Rolex Testimonee and Team Europe player, Jon Rahm&rsquo;s association with Rolex actually began in 2016 and since then, we saw his meteoric rise in the world of golf. Rahm turned professional in 2016 with a fruitful first season, recording victories at the 2017 Farmers Insurance Open, Dubai Duty-Free Irish Open and DP World Tour Championship, Dubai. He soon achieved the title of the top-ranked player in the Official World Golf Ranking in July 2020 after winning the Memorial Tournament. With this, he joined Seve Ballesteros as the second Spaniard to be World No. 1. One of his latest triumphs was in April 2023, when Rahm won at the 87th Masters Tournament to obtain his second Major championship and claimed the coveted Green Jacket for the first time. He climbed to World No.1 and became only the second Spanish player to win two different Major championships. He also became the first European to claim both the Masters and the U.S. Open. In 2023, Jon Rahm made his third appearance for Team Europe at Marco Simone.
Reflecting on the significance of The Ryder Cup, he said, &ldquo;The Ryder Cup represents a lot for me. It is one of the main reasons why I am where I am today. The 1997 Ryder Cup was the spark that ignited my passion for the game. I cannot quantify or put into words how much it means but it is hugely important for me.&rdquo;
We take a chance to listen in to the dialogue between Rolex and Jon Rahm on his relationship with golf, The Ryder Cup and Rolex.

Rolex testimonee Jon Rahm wearing an Oyster Perpetual Datejust 41

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 <li>2023 is an exciting year with The Ryder Cup in Rome. How much were you looking forward to this event? How did you prepare for playing as a team?</li>
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When it comes to me, my preparation always remains the same. Nobody else helped me hit the shot so I go about my business in exactly the same way. I always do the same things but just competed as part of a team. It was a very different week in terms of media activity but when it comes to the game, I do not prepare differently. Each player was there because of what they can do on the golf course. Therefore, you should continue to do what got you there in the first place and execute those skills. If I was playing with someone like Matthew Fitzpatrick, he cannot help me with my swing or shot. We simply hit our respective shots and move onto the next. It is as simple as that.

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 <li>Tell us about your experience playing for Team Europe at the 2018 Ryder Cup. Did your first experience of the unique team competition live up to expectations?</li>
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In 2009, I was playing in the European Young Masters which is a nation&rsquo;s cup in Europe for under 16s where the best two men and the best two women represent their country. When we were playing, I remember walking to the fourth tee, seeing a sign for the 2018 Ryder Cup and saying to myself: &ldquo;I will be here in 2018&rdquo;. To actually fulfill that and play for Team Europe at the 2018 Ryder Cup was a very surreal and amazing feeling. I was extremely proud of myself and all the memories of me playing as a little kid came flooding back. It was not my best showing but my performance on the Sunday against Tiger Woods was my redemption. To win that match and ultimately help Team Europe win the 2018 Ryder Cup was very special. It was nerve-wracking playing in my first Ryder Cup but it was much easier for me to confront those challenges when it was held at Whistling Straits in 2021. I was much more accomplished player in 2021. I was the U.S. Open champion and having experienced The Ryder Cup before made it much more comfortable for me.

Riding High

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