First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh eager to compete again, Charley Hull heading to YouTube soon. The Back Nine.
Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf League season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner remains connected to the competing circuit but needs more family time. This was mutually agreed upon, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka, a competitor who thrives on high-level competition, had limited motivation at LIV and initially joined in 2022 mainly because of injury concerns and to secure a solid retirement fund. It is unsurprising he declined his last contractual season, but questions remain about whether he had to buy out or repay guaranteed fees, and if he still owns his LIV team Smash GC, now captained by Talor Gooch.
Speculation is rife about where Koepka will next compete: DP World Tour, where he would have immediate playing rights likely with a penalty, or the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension since his last LIV appearance, after lifetime bans were softened by former commissioner Jay Monahan. Returning LIV players, especially stars, benefit the PGA Tour’s leverage, and this critical question seems partly answered. ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported that Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, not extended after 2022, to rejoin the players’ circle.
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Any suspension would expire in August, coinciding with the end of the 2026 season at the Tour Championship from August 27 to 30. Koepka would be eligible in 2027 when the PGA Tour launches its new schedule with about two dozen $20-million tournaments featuring top limited fields — perfect timing for his return and an asset for PGA Tour Enterprises investors backing the top league.
Jon Rahm recently expressed confidence on the \”Subpar\” podcast, \”He might need some time, but I think he’ll return to the PGA Tour. He’ll probably play at least the minimum, focusing on the big events he likes. If he qualifies or is invited to high-profile tournaments, he’ll play those too.\” The PGA Tour board, player directors, and Tiger Woods-led competition committee may show leniency following Rory McIlroy’s recommendation to allow Koepka immediate play.
Update: Koepka is now immediately eligible for the PGA Tour and will tee off at the Farmers Insurance Open in late January at Torrey Pines. His participation at the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale, Arizona is also confirmed. This is enabled through the new \”Returning Member Program\” created last Thursday, allowing selected LIV players to resume PGA Tour membership without suspension. Koepka’s PGA Championship win in 2023 as his fifth major was pivotal for this decision.
The PGA Tour states this special rule applies to major and Players winners from the last three years, with a deadline of