First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh back in action, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has opted out of the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion plans to stay connected with the rival circuit but needs more time for family. This was reportedly agreed upon amicably, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka, known for thriving in high-level competition, found limited motivation within LIV. He initially joined LIV in 2022 mainly due to injury and to secure substantial retirement earnings. His skipping the final contracted season raises questions about possible buyouts or salary repayments. He remains an owner of LIV’s Smash GC team, which named Talor Gooch as captain.
Speculation is rife about which tour Koepka will play in next. He could immediately compete on the DP World Tour, possibly facing penalties, or return to the PGA Tour. The PGA Tour had imposed a one-year suspension related to LIV participation, softened from initial lifetime bans under former Commissioner Jay Monahan. According to ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach, Koepka recently applied to reinstate his PGA Tour membership, seeking to rejoin the player roster.
An eventual suspension would end in August, coinciding with the conclusion of the 2026 season. Koepka would be eligible for 2027, aligning with the PGA Tour’s revamped schedule featuring about two dozen $20 million events with limited fields—a perfect reentry time. PGA Tour Enterprises investors would likely welcome a strong name like Koepka.
Jon Rahm recently suggested on the ‘Subpar’ podcast that Koepka might return to play selected major tournaments after some time. The PGA Tour’s board, player directors, and Tiger Woods-led competition committee have influence over suspensions and reportedly support Rory McIlroy’s advocate stance to allow Koepka’s immediate play.
Update: Koepka is now officially eligible to play on the PGA Tour and will compete at the Farmers Insurance Open in late January at Torrey Pines. His entry to the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale is also confirmed.
This was enabled by a new ‘Returning Member Program’ allowing select LIV players to regain PGA Tour membership without suspension, acknowledging Koepka’s recent sporting achievements, notably his 2023 PGA Championship win.
The PGA Tour states this special allowance applies to major and Players winners within three years, with a deadline of February 2. This unique opportunity sets no precedent, warns CEO Brian Rolapp. The decision may impact players like Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau, and Cam Smith and concerns LIV Golf.
Koepka’s penalties for joining LIV are mild: a $5 million charity donation, exclusion from the 2026 FedEx Cup bonus, and a five-year ban from the PGA Tour’s equity program.
DeChambeau Confirms LIV Return for 2026
Meanwhile, Bryson DeChambeau has officially confirmed he will compete in the LIV Golf League in 2026 with his Crushers team unchanged. However, he has not announced a