First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh returning, Charley Hull launching on YouTube soon. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion will remain connected to the rival circuit but needs more family time, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka, known as a competitor thriving on high-level competition, had limited motivation at LIV and joined in 2022 mainly due to injury concerns and for financial security in retirement. Questions linger about whether he had to buy out or repay part of his guaranteed salary. He remains owner of LIV team Smash GC, with Talor Gooch as the new captain.
Speculation is rife about where Koepka will play next—DP World Tour, where he would be immediately eligible possibly paying a fine, or PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year ban after his last LIV appearance, following a reduction of lifetime bans. According to ESPN’s Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership and rejoin the players’ circle.
An eventual suspension would end in August, coinciding with the close of the 2026 season at the Tour Championship. Koepka would then be eligible for the 2027 season when the PGA Tour introduces a condensed schedule with nearly two dozen $20 million events and limited fields, ideal for his return. Investors in PGA Tour Enterprises would welcome another strong name.
Jon Rahm recently expressed confidence in Koepka’s return, suggesting he may play selectively at big tournaments. The decision involves the PGA Tour board, player directors, and the Tiger Woods-led competition committee, reportedly supporting Rory McIlroy’s recommendation to let Koepka play immediately.
Update: It happened as expected. Monday evening local time, news spread rapidly that Koepka is immediately eligible to play 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 at TPC Scottsdale is also confirmed.
This became possible through the \”Returning Member Program,\” a new rule created last Thursday allowing select LIV players to rejoin the PGA Tour without suspension. Koepka’s recent sporting achievements, particularly his 2023 PGA Championship win, were considered.
The PGA Tour statement clarifies that this special rule applies to major and Players winners of the past three years, with a deadline of February 2. PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp called this a one-time clearly defined opportunity, not setting precedent for future cases. This will undoubtedly cause reflection among Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau, and Cam Smith, and unease within LIV Golf League.
Koepka’s penalty for joining LIV is comparatively mild: a $5 million charity donation, exclusion from the 2026 FedEx Cup bonus system, and a five-year ban from PGA Tour Enterprises’ equity program.
DeChambeau Confirms LIV Return for 2026
Meanwhile, Bryson DeChambeau officially confirmed his participation in the 202