First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh aiming for a comeback, and Charley Hull soon launching on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the LIV Golf League for the 2026 season beginning on February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner will remain connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for his family. This friendly agreement was officially stated by LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka, known as a competitor who thrives under high-level sporting challenges, was only conditionally motivated in LIV. He had joined LIV in 2022 mainly because injury threatened to end his career prematurely and he wanted a solid retirement fund. Given this, it is no surprise he gave up his final contract year, though questions remain: did he have to buy out his contract or return part of his guaranteed fee? Does the 35-year-old remain owner of the LIV team Smash GC, which has already named Talor Gooch as captain?
Speculation is rife as to where Koepka will next appear. The DP World Tour could immediately grant him playing privileges—possibly with a penalty payment—or the PGA Tour, where he would have to serve a one-year suspension following his last LIV appearance, after former commissioner Jay Monahan’s lifetime bans were substantially softened. Why be spiteful when every LIV returnee – especially a prominent one – benefits the stronger tour? This crucial question seems partially answered. According to ESPN’s Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally submitted a request last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed after 2022, and rejoin the player pool.
An eventual ban would expire in August, coinciding with the end of the 2026 season at the Tour Championship from August 27 to 30. Koepka would be eligible for 2027, especially as the PGA Tour plans a compressed schedule of nearly two dozen $20 million events with limited top fields – a perfect reentry point, fitting Koepka’s taste. PGA Tour Enterprises investors would surely welcome adding a strong name to the new top league.
Jon Rahm recently said on the \”Subpar\” podcast, \”He might need some time, but I think he’ll return to the PGA Tour. He’ll probably play at least the minimum, and why not the tournaments he likes, the big ones. If he qualifies or is invited to high-profile events, he would play those too.\” Furthermore, the governance board, player directors, and Tiger Woods-led competition committee – all influential in suspension decisions – may overlook the ban for a five-time major champion, aligning with Rory McIlroy’s recommendation to allow Koepka’s immediate return. A majority of fans also seem supportive, according to an informal poll by \”Bunkered\” magazine.
Update: The speculation proved correct: news spread rapidly that Koepka is immediately eligible to play on the PGA Tour and will compete at the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines in late January. His participation at the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale, Arizona, is also confirmed. This was made possible by a new \”Returning Member Program\” allowing select LIV players to rejoin the PGA Tour without suspension.