First start at the Farmers, Vijay Singh returns, Charley Hull launches YouTube channel. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more time with his family. This was amicably agreed upon, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka, a competitor who thrives on top-level competition, was less motivated in LIV. He initially joined LIV in 2022 due to injury-related career concerns and to secure a substantial retirement fund. Hence, giving up the final contract year isn’t surprising, though questions linger about any buyouts or repayments. He remains the owner of the LIV team Smash GC, with Talor Gooch as the new captain.
Speculation is rife about which tour Koepka will play on next. On the DP World Tour, he’d immediately be eligible, likely with a penalty? Or the PGA Tour, where a one-year suspension remains since his last LIV event, after lifetime bans were reduced. Why be vindictive when returning LIV players benefit the PGA Tour? This key question seems partly answered. ESPN’s Mark Schlabach reported Koepka submitted a formal application last Friday to reinstate his PGA Tour membership, which ended post-2022.
An eventual suspension would end in August, coinciding with the 2026 season climax at the Tour Championship (August 27-30). Koepka would be eligible for 2027, aligned with the PGA Tour’s new schedule featuring nearly two dozen $20 million events with limited elite fields — an ideal comeback time. PGA Tour Enterprises’ investors would also welcome a big name return.
\”He might need time, but I think he will return to the PGA Tour,\” said Jon Rahm recently on the \”Subpar\” podcast. \”He’ll likely play at least the minimum and tournaments he enjoys, especially majors. If he can qualify for top events, he’ll play those too.\” The PGA Tour board, player directors, and Tiger Woods-led competition committee have influence over suspensions and appear inclined to follow Rory McIlroy’s recommendation to allow Koepka’s immediate return.
Update: It happened: On Monday evening local time, news spread rapidly that Koepka is reinstated immediately on the PGA Tour and will tee off at the Farmers Insurance Open in late January at Torrey Pines. Participation at the WM Phoenix Open in Scottsdale, Arizona, is also confirmed.
This is enabled by the recently created \”Returning Member Program,\” allowing selected LIV players to regain PGA Tour membership without suspension. Koepka’s sporting merits, notably his 2023 PGA Championship win, were considered.
The PGA Tour states the special rule applies to major and Players winners from the past three years, ending February 2. \”This is a one-time, clearly defined opportunity and not precedent-setting,\” said CEO Brian Rolapp. This likely unsettles Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau, and Cam Smith and causes LIV Golf discomfort.
Koepka’s LIV-related penalty is mild: a $5 million