First start at the Farmers, Vijay Singh returning, Charley Hull launching YouTube channel. The Back Nine updates.
Brooks Koepka has officially deregistered from the LIV Golf League for the 2026 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 statement. Given Koepka’s competitive nature, speculation arises about his future tournament appearances. He reportedly submitted a formal application to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed after 2022, following the easing of previous lifetime bans on LIV players by the former commissioner Jay Monahan. The new ‘Returning Member Program’ enables select LIV players, including Koepka, to rejoin the PGA Tour without suspension based on recent major wins, with Koepka’s 2023 PGA Championship being key to his reinstatement.
His potential suspension would have ended in August, aligning with the end of the 2026 PGA Tour season. With a new schedule including nearly two dozen $20 million events featuring limited, highly competitive fields set for 2027, the timing is ideal for Koepka’s return. Top players like Jon Rahm expect Koepka to eventually return to PGA Tour play, likely participating in significant tournaments.
Update: Koepka’s reinstatement was confirmed Monday evening; he is eligible to compete immediately and is scheduled for the Farmers Insurance Open and the WM Phoenix Open. This move impacts the LIV Golf League and signals a significant shift in the professional golf landscape. Koepka is required to donate $5 million to the PGA Tour Charity Fund and is excluded from the 2026 FedEx Cup bonus and PGA Tour capital programs.
DeChambeau Confirms LIV Golf Participation in 2026
Bryson DeChambeau officially announced he will compete in the LIV Golf League in 2026, maintaining the Crushers team lineup. However, no general contract extension has been announced, prompting speculation about behind-the-scenes negotiations following Koepka’s departure.
Vijay Singh Returns to PGA Tour at 62
In a surprising move, three-time major champion Vijay Singh is returning to the PGA Tour at age 62, utilizing an exemption due to his career earnings rank. Singh has been competing on the PGA Tour Champions with five titles, including the Senior Players Championship, and will start at the Sony Open in Hawaii this week.