First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh ready to compete again, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for family. This was agreed upon amicably, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka is known as a competitor who thrives in top-level competition, something he lacked somewhat at LIV. He initially joined LIV in 2022 mostly because of injury concerns and to secure his retirement finances. Thus, skipping the last contracted season is not surprising, though questions remain about whether he had to buy out or repay part of his guaranteed fee. Does the 35-year-old remain owner of LIV team Smash GC, now captained by Talor Gooch?
Speculation arises on which fairways Koepka will play next. The DP World Tour would immediately allow him playing rights—perhaps for a penalty fee? Or the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension after his last LIV event, with lifetime bans softened by former commissioner Jay Monahan? It seems the question is partly answered. ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reports Koepka formally applied last Friday to reinstate his PGA Tour membership, not renewed after 2022, and to be readmitted as a member.
An eventual suspension would expire in August, after which Koepka would be eligible for the 2027 season when the PGA Tour introduces a condensed schedule with about two dozen $20 million tournaments featuring limited, top fields. Perfect timing for a comeback, fitting Koepka’s style. PGA Tour Enterprises’ investors would also welcome a strong name on 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 likely play at least the minimum and probably the tournaments he likes, the big ones. If he qualifies or gets into big events, he’ll play those too.\” The PGA Tour board, player directors, and Tiger Woods-led competition committee hold influence on the suspension, with Rory McIlroy recommending Koepka’s immediate return.
Update: This has happened. On Monday evening local time, news spread rapidly that Koepka is immediately eligible for the PGA Tour and will play 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 \”Returning Member Program,\” a rule created last Thursday allowing selected LIV players to rejoin the PGA Tour without suspension. Koepka’s case considered his sporting merits, especially his 2023 PGA Championship as a fifth major.
The PGA Tour states that the special rule applies to major and Players Championship winners from the last three years, expiring February 2. \”This is a one-time, clearly defined opportunity and does not set precedent for the future,\” said PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp. This development likely concerns Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau, and Cam Smith and creates unease in the