It wouldn’t be a surprise to see big Jon go on the Rahmpage once again

JON RAHM has history in his sights as Ballyliffin breaks new ground at this week’s Dubai Duty Free Irish Open hosted by the Rory Foundation.

The Spaniard, who won in such emphatic fashion at Portstewart last year, will bid to add his name to a select group of only five players who have successfully defended the title.

Nick Faldo, Seve Ballesteros, Colin Montgomerie, Ian Woosnam and Mark James all managed the feat in the past and Rahm hopes to join their ranks in Donegal.

The World No5 couldn’t have been gifted a better stage to chase a landmark triumph as Ballyliffin prepares to host the Irish Open for the first time.

And the good news is, with sunshine and dry weather forecast, mother nature is poised to play a pivotal – and positive – role in producing a challenging track.

The last time we saw a baked links course was at the 2013 Open when Phil Mickelson won at Muirfield. We can expect more of the same on the stunning Glashedy course.

My greatest fear for this year’s event was a blowout because as amazing as the Inishowen peninsula can be, you don’t want to be teeing it up in a gale. That won’t be the case, with high temperatures expected throughout. Ballyliffin bathed in sunshine will provide a wonderful backdrop for the fourth Rolex Series Event of 2018 and let’s hope the quality of golf matches the surroundings. A strong home challenge would be ideal – over to you Rory – but don’t rule out the precocious Rahm setting a heady pace at the top of a loaded leaderboard.

The 23-year-old is certainly one to watch. At his best, he is electrifying.

As well as chasing a third Rolex title in 10 months, he has won already on the PGA Tour this year, while his victory at the Spanish Open is proof he moves the needle when he’s in the groove.

Also, who can forget how impressive he was at Portstewart 12 months ago when he bossed Rory for the first two days en route to carding a winning score of 24 under.

On paper, Mcilroy remains the European superstar, but don’t underestimate Rahm’s ability and desire to eclipse the four-time major champion for a second time in 12 months.

Back-to-back wins over Rory in his own backyard would be a serious statement of intent.

Distance and ball control will be huge factors this week.

Rahm, who finished T5 at last week’s French Open in Paris, is the man to beat.

Seve was one of five players who defended Irish Open title

HE’LL FIND HIS GROOVE Jon Rahm inspects his equipment during yesterday’s practice session at Ballyliffin