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

First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh aiming for a comeback, Charley Hull soon launching a YouTube channel. The Back Nine. Brooks Koepka has notably withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more family time, according to a friendly agreement stated by LIV CEO Scott McNeil. However, Koepka, a competitive type who thrives on top-level competition, seemed less motivated in LIV. He had joined LIV primarily in 2022 due to injury concerns and to secure retirement earnings. Speculation continues about where Koepka will play next – the DP World Tour, where he might play immediately possibly with a penalty, or the PGA Tour, where a one-year ban following his last LIV appearance would apply but has been softened after lifetime bans were lifted. ESPN’s Mark Schlabach reported Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership and rejoin the playing ranks after not extending past 2022. An anticipated ban would end in August 2026, coinciding with the Tour Championship’s conclusion. Koepka would be eligible for 2027 under the PGA Tour’s new schedule featuring roughly two dozen $20-million tournaments with limited fields. Jon Rahm recently commented on the podcast “Subpar” that Koepka might return to the PGA Tour and play major events only. A new “Returning Member Program” rule allows select LIV players, including Koepka, to rejoin without bans, recognizing recent major victories like the 2023 PGA Championship. Koepka’s penalty includes a $5 million charity donation, exclusion from FedEx Cup bonuses in 2026, and a five-year ban from PGA Tour Enterprises equity. Bryson DeChambeau confirmed plans to compete in LIV Golf in 2026 with his Crushers team. Vijay Singh, at 62, returns to the PGA Tour using his career money list exemption, playing the Sony Open. Tomorrow’s Golf League (TGL) suffers declining TV ratings in its second season without Tiger Woods. Charley Hull announces a YouTube channel launching in summer. Jason Day surprised the golf world with a cryptic “I’ve quit” post but remains active on the PGA Tour, fueling speculation of a new focus on his YouTube channel “The Lads.” Tom Phillips is named the new CEO of the Ladies European Tour, effective April 6, aiming to grow its global reach and opportunities for women. Derek Sprague resigns as PGA of America CEO after one year to prioritize family care. A legendary roundtable features Bernhard Langer, Sir Nick Faldo, Ian Woosnam, and Sandy Lyle reflecting on their careers and Severiano Ballesteros, offering captivating insights into golf history.