Jon Rahm’s triumph at the Masters in 2023 marked a significant turning point, dispelling a longstanding concern that he was jinxed.
These days, Jon Rahm finds himself inundated with requests for autographs, a stark contrast to the past. Reflecting on this change, he shared, “Every time I got to my locker, every single week, there’s quite a from somebody involved with the tournament that wants a signature.” This surge in demand only materialized after his victory at Augusta National, a momentous occasion that altered the trajectory of his career.
As the current Masters champion, Rahm is well aware of the heightened expectations that come with the prestigious title. Winning the Masters not only grants you a coveted green jacket but also secures a permanent place in the tournament’s history, complete with exclusive privileges like annual invitations to Augusta National.
Describing the significance of the Masters, Rahm emphasized, “It’s the biggest tournament that you can win, and people recognize that.” The aura surrounding the event extends beyond the confines of the golf course, propelling its champions into the realm of golfing celebrities.
One unique tradition at Augusta National sets Masters champions apart—the privilege to sign autographs inside the club’s logo, adding a layer of rarity and value to their signatures. Rahm learned of this custom firsthand when he mistakenly signed within the logo before his victory, only to be corrected by a fellow golfer. This incident left him momentarily rattled, fearing he had jeopardized his chances of ever winning the Masters.
For six years, Rahm carried the weight of this superstition until he clinched the title in 2023, finally able to sign within the logo with confidence. Reflecting on this journey, he humorously remarked, “For six years, I told people I couldn’t, and now luckily I can.”
Now, as the reigning champion, Rahm enjoys the privilege of signing memorabilia with the coveted ’23 inscription, solidifying his place in Masters history. Despite this newfound freedom, he remains cautious not to tempt fate by deviating from the established traditions of the sport.
James Colgan
Golf.com Editor
James Colgan, an esteemed news and features editor at GOLF, is renowned for his compelling stories featured in both the magazine and website. With a knack for on-camera work, he oversees GOLF’s media vertical, showcasing his versatile skills across various platforms. A proud recipient of the caddie scholarship during his time at Syracuse University, James hails from Long Island, infusing his passion for golf into his professional endeavors. For inquiries, reach out to [email protected].