First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh aims for a comeback, Charley Hull to launch 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As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for family. This amicable agreement was officially stated by LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka, known as a competitor who thrives under top-level contests, was only moderately motivated at LIV events. He joined LIV in 2022 primarily as his career was threatened by injuries and to secure a retirement fund. His decision to skip the final contracted season surprised few, though questions about possible buyouts or repayments linger. He remains owner of LIV team Smash GC, which named Talor Gooch as captain.
Speculation abounds about which tour Koepka will join next. The DP World Tour grants him immediate playing rights, possibly subject to penalties, while the PGA Tour imposes a one-year suspension for LIV participation, although lifetime bans have been significantly softened. Not seeking revenge seems logical, especially as high-profile LIV returnees benefit the PGA Tour. According to ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which had lapsed after 2022.
Any suspension would end in August, coinciding with the 2026 Tour Championship conclusion. This timing suits Koepka as the PGA Tour plans a condensed schedule of nearly two dozen $20 million events with limited competitive fields starting in 2027 – a perfect moment for his return. Investors in PGA Tour Enterprises would welcome such a star name.
Jon Rahm recently commented on the podcast \”Subpar\” that Koepka might need time but is likely to return to the PGA Tour, playing minimal events and then big tournaments he likes. The PGA Tour’s board, player directors, and Tiger Woods-led competition committee hold influence over suspensions, reportedly favoring Koepka’s immediate return as recommended by Rory McIlroy.
Update: The news broke quickly Monday evening 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 in the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale is also confirmed.
This was enabled by the new \”Returning Member Program\” created last Thursday, allowing select LIV players to regain membership without suspension. Koepka’s major achievements, including the 2023 PGA Championship, were acknowledged in this special rule.
The PGA Tour states this offer applies to major winners and Players Championship winners from the past three years and ends February 2. PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp clarified this is a unique opportunity without precedent for the future. This development may influence players like Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau, and