“Can’t believe back-to-back years we got a win with a Spanish member on the team, so at least keep it in the family,” Rahm said. “That’s something I’m happy about. What a great Sunday we had.”

While Rahm and the home crowd celebrated, it was American Talor Gooch who spoiled the Spanish sweep, winning the individual title with a one-under 70 to finish at eight under — one shot clear of Rahm. It was Gooch’s second LIV victory at Valderrama and his 13th overall trophy, now the most in LIV Golf history.

“The fans, they’re great even if you’re not a Spaniard,” said Gooch. “Obviously I know that they want one of their own to win, but I never felt like the spoiler. They’ve embraced me so much. Having won here two years ago, I think I’ve garnered a few more fans.”

Legion XIII claim another team title. PHOTO: Getty Images.

Gooch now has four individual wins, seven team titles across three squads, the 2022 Team Championship with 4Aces GC and the 2023 Individual Championship with RangeGoats GC.

“That’s a pretty cool stat,” he said. “I didn’t know I had the most trophies on LIV. I’ll be sure to let everyone know in JCB [at LIV Golf UK] that that’s the case.”

He did it the hard way. Bogeys at the 1st and 6th holes cut into his overnight lead before birdies at 7 and 11 steadied the ship. Rahm, starting six shots behind, fired a flawless 65 to pull level after Gooch bogeyed the 14th and Rahm birdied.

But Gooch hit back immediately with a clutch 19-footer for birdie to retake the lead. Both men birdied the 17th. Rahm needed another at 18 to force a playoff but was forced to lay up after a loose tee shot. He salvaged par with a 15-foot putt and a fist pump that echoed through Valderrama.

“It’s a shame it wasn’t for birdie,” Rahm said. “Today I played one of the better rounds of golf I’ve played in a very long time.”