First start at the Farmers, Vijay Singh returns, and Charley Hull heads to YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the LIV Golf League for the 2026 season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion will remain connected to the rival circuit but needs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 time for family. This was reportedly agreed upon amicably, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. However, Koepka is a competitor who thrives in high-level contests, which he experienced only to a limited extent at LIV. He switched in 2022 mainly due to injury concerns about ending his career early and securing a solid retirement fund. His decision not to play the final contracted season raises questions: Did he buy out his contract or return part of his guaranteed fee? Does the 35-year-old remain owner of his LIV team Smash GC, which has already appointed Talor Gooch as the new captain?
Much speculation revolves around which fairways Koepka will appear on next. The DP World Tour would grant immediate playing rights, possibly with a penalty payment. The PGA Tour imposed a one-year suspension starting after his last LIV appearance, but lifetime bans set by former commissioner Jay Monahan have been significantly softened. There seems little reason for vengeance when every returning LIV player ultimately benefits the dominant tour. This crucial question appears partially answered. According to ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which lapsed after 2022, seeking reinstatement among the players.
A potential suspension would end in August, coinciding with the 2026 season finale at the Tour Championship from August 27 to 30. Koepka would then be eligible to play in 2027 when the PGA Tour introduces a new calendar with about two dozen $20 million tournaments featuring limited, top-ranked fields—the perfect timing for his comeback. PGA Tour Enterprises investors would also welcome another high-profile name. \”He may need some time, but I think he’ll return to the PGA Tour,\” said Jon Rahm recently on the ‘Subpar’ podcast. \”He’ll probably play at least the minimum and why not the tournaments he likes, the big ones. If he qualifies or is invited to high-profile events, he’ll play them.\” It’s possible the PGA Tour might overlook a suspension for the five-time major winner. Besides the board, player directors and the competition committee led by Tiger Woods have a say on suspensions and reportedly follow Rory McIlroy’s recommendation to reinstate Koepka immediately.
Update: This is now confirmed. On Monday evening local time, news spread rapidly 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. His participation at the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale in Arizona is also confirmed.
This was made possible by a new policy called the ‘Returning Member Program,’ introduced last Thursday, allowing select LIV players to rejoin the PGA Tour without suspension. In Koepka’s case, his sporting merits were recognized, notably his 2023 PGA Championship victory, his fifth major.
The PGA Tour statement notes that the