In the fading Roman sunlight at Marco Simone last September, Rory McIlroy stood on the 18th green with tears in his eyes. Europe had just reclaimed the Ryder Cup, and his voice cracked as he spoke about what the week meant to him. McIlroy had been the emotional heartbeat of Team Europe, fist-pumping through fairways, rallying crowds, and taking on the responsibility of being the face of the team. It was, by all accounts, his Ryder Cup. But as cameras swarmed McIlroy, Jon Rahm sat just a few feet away, quieter, less celebrated, despite having contributed in equal measure.

Rahm’s half point against Scottie Scheffler earlier in that week had been vital, his presence intimidating. Yet the spotlight seemed tilted, and those who paid close attention noticed his restless expression i

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