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Membership Renewed, No Ban: Koepka Immediately Back on PGA Tour

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 opted out of the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for family. This was mutually agreed upon according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka, known as a competitive type who thrives on high-level competition, did not feel fully motivated at LIV. His 2022 switch to LIV was primarily motivated by injury concerns and a desire to secure good retirement funds. Thus, his decision to forgo the final contract year is not surprising, though questions remain about financial details and his status as owner of LIV team Smash GC, now captained by Talor Gooch.

Speculation is rife about where Koepka will compete next. He is immediately eligible for the DP World Tour, possibly with a penalty, or on the PGA Tour, where he would serve a one-year suspension following his last LIV appearance after the previous lifetime bans by former Commissioner Jay Monahan were softened. Why be vindictive when LIV returnees strengthen the PGA Tour? A key question seems partially answered. ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reports Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed after 2022.