First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh is eager to compete again, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn from the LIV Golf League season 2026, starting February 7 in Riyadh. The five-time major winner intends to remain connected to the competing circuit but requires more family time, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka, known for thriving in high-level competition, seemed less motivated by LIV events. In 2022, he shifted primarily to LIV due to injury concerns threatening his career and to secure a solid retirement income. Thus, his decision to skip the last contracted season is understandable, though questions remain about potential buyouts or refunds. He remains an owner of the LIV team Smash GC, now captained by Talor Gooch.
Speculation abounds about Koepka’s next tour appearance. He would be immediately eligible on the DP World Tour, possibly with a fine, or on the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension following his last LIV appearance—all suspensions having been softened from lifetime bans imposed by former Commissioner Jay Monahan. A return would strategically benefit the PGA Tour, and recent info from ESPN’s Mark Schlabach confirms Koepka formally applied last Friday for reinstatement of his PGA Tour membership, aiming to rejoin the playing field.
Koepka’s suspension would expire in August, coinciding with the 2026 PGA Tour season finale at the Tour Championship. He would be eligible to compete in 2027 under the PGA Tour’s new condensed schedule featuring nearly two dozen $20-million tournaments with limited, star-studded fields — a perfect timing for his comeback. PGA Tour Enterprises investors would welcome another marquee name joining their top tier league.
Jon Rahm recently said on the \”Subpar\” podcast, \”He might need some time, but I think he will return to the PGA Tour. He may at least play the minimum, and why not the tournaments he likes, the big ones? If he qualifies for high-profile events, he will play those too.\” The PGA Tour’s player directors and the competition committee chaired by Tiger Woods hold sway over suspension waivers. Rory McIlroy recommended Koepka be immediately reinstated.
Update: It has happened: On Monday evening local time, news spread that Koepka is immediately eligible to play on the PGA Tour and will tee off at the Farmers Insurance Open late January at Torrey Pines. He is also confirmed for the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale, Arizona.
This was made possible by a new \”Returning Member Program\” rule introduced Thursday, allowing select LIV players to rejoin the PGA Tour without suspension. Koepka’s recent sports merits, including his 2023 PGA Championship as his fifth major, were considered.
The PGA Tour states the special rule applies