First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh eager for more, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
Expectedly, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf League season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for his family. This amicable agreement was officially stated by LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka is a competitor motivated by top-level contests, which he only partially experienced in LIV. He initially joined LIV in 2022 due to injury concerns and to secure a substantial retirement fund. Hence, skipping the final contractual season is not surprising, though questions remain about financial terms and his ownership in LIV’s Smash GC team, now captained by Talor Gooch.
Speculations arise regarding where Koepka will play next — the DP World Tour, where he could play immediately, possibly with a penalty, or the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension following his last LIV event. After reductions in previously imposed lifetime bans by former commissioner Jay Monahan, a return could suit both the Tour and Koepka. According to ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, previously not renewed after 2022.
An expected ban would expire in August, coinciding with the end of the 2026 season and Tour Championship. Koepka would be eligible for the 2027 season under the PGA Tour’s new format featuring nearly two dozen $20 million events with limited elite fields — an ideal comeback timing. PGA Tour Enterprises’ investors would welcome a star of Koepka’s calibre.
Jon Rahm recently commented on the podcast \”Subpar\” that Koepka might take some time but will likely return to the PGA Tour, playing at least minimal events, especially the majors and significant tournaments. The PGA Tour’s board, player directors, and competition committee led by Tiger Woods hold influence over suspension decisions, with Rory McIlroy advocating for Koepka’s immediate return.
Update: As anticipated, news spread Monday evening that Koepka is immediately eligible to play on the PGA Tour, starting with the Farmers Insurance Open in late January at Torrey Pines. His participation at the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale is also confirmed.
This was enabled by a newly created \”Returning Member Program,\” allowing select LIV players to resume PGA Tour membership without suspension. Koepka’s sporting merits, especially his 2023 PGA Championship win, were considered.
The PGA Tour statement highlights this special provision for major and Players winners within the last three years, expiring February 2. CEO Brian Rolapp emphasized this is a unique opportunity without future precedent, impacting LIV Golf League tensions.
Koepka’s penalties for joining LIV include a $5 million charity donation, exclusion from the 2026 FedEx Cup bonus, and a five-year ban from the PGA Tour’s equity program tied to investor funds.
DeChambeau Confirms LIV Start for 2026
Bryson DeChambeau