JON Rahm will play his first professional tournament on home soil at the venue responsible for his career when he contests this week’s Andalucia Valderrama Masters.
Rahm was only nearing his third birthday when Valderrama hosted the 1997 Ryder Cup, but his father was inspired to take up the game by the biennial contest and his son soon followed in his footsteps.
The 22-year-old was pictured waiting in line for autographs at the course a few years later, with 2016 Open champion Henrik Stenson – now a potential Ryder Cup team-mate – among the players to oblige.
“This venue is very important for Spanish golf,” said the world No 5, who only turned professional in June last year but claimed his first PGA Tour title in January and won the Irish Open in July.
“In the past it did a great job putting Spanish golf on the map, they made it an iconic golf course. Then the Ryder Cup came along and made a huge impact in Spain – that’s the reason why I’m playing golf.
“There have been some pictures floating around of me waiting for some autographs right here and it was Henrik Stenson who signed my shirt.
“It’s funny how I’ve come from that 10 years ago to now being able to compete alongside him and accomplish the things I’ve accomplished, so it’s quite a special feeling to be back.”
Rahm is currently third in the Race to Dubai and will be looking to close the gap on absent leader Tommy Fleetwood, as will second-placed compatriot and tournament host Sergio Garcia.
“This is my favourite golf course ever,” said the Masters champion, who won this event in 2011.
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