Brooks Koepka takes a step back to the PGA Tour and shares insights on his reasons for returning.
At a PGA Tour press conference ahead of his comeback debut, 35-year-old golf professional Brooks Koepka, returning from the LIV Golf League, spoke openly about his decision. Since the WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play 2022, Koepka had not participated in a PGA Tour event. On Tuesday morning, the five-time major champion addressed the media for the first time since his return.
Koepka quickly realized: this comeback feels different, even for a five-time major winner. “I think it feels a little different. I’m definitely a bit more nervous this week just because I’m coming back,” Koepka said candidly. At the same time, gratitude prevails: “But it feels good. I’m super grateful to be here again.”
Brooks Koepka: “Being close to my family is very important to me”
After three and a half years away from the PGA Tour, much is new for Koepka. “There are many guys I haven’t known for the last three, three and a half years,” he explained. Nevertheless, the excitement to be part of the tour life again is great. The most important reason for his return was not sports-related. Koepka repeatedly emphasized the role of his family. “Clearly my family. A lot has happened in the last five, six months,” he said. The decision to return was the result of intense discussions: “Those were difficult conversations, but it was the best for me and my family.” His wife, his team, and he himself agreed that “this is the right decision.”
“What I missed most was the opportunity to have my family with me all the time,” Koepka said. The joy is all the greater that his wife and son can now accompany him: “My wife is coming this week, my son is coming this week and also next week.” Over the past years, his perspective has changed significantly. “I have grown a lot in recent years – especially in the past months. Being close to my family is very important to me.”
Looking back, Koepka does not regret his path. “I have learned a lot and always enjoyed the journey, wherever I was,” he explained. Nevertheless, he looks ahead with tangible motivation: “I am excited about this new chapter and grateful to be here.” He especially thanked those who made his return possible: “Brian Rolapp, Jay (Monahan), Tiger (Woods) – to all who made this possible, I’m super grateful.”
The first call went to Tiger Woods
Tiger Woods was the first person Koepka called when he was released from LIV Golf and decided to pursue re-entry into the PGA Tour. “I have always had a good relationship with Tiger and wanted to do exactly that. When I got the chance to play again on the PGA Tour, it was exciting, but honestly, I didn’t really know what to do. Tiger was the first person I thought of,” Koepka said. He further explained that Woods has been someone he could rely on in the past for advice and support, and that call