First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh wants to compete again, Charley Hull soon launching on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected: Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn from the LIV Golf 2026 season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner remains involved with the competing circuit but needs more time for his family. LIV CEO Scott McNeil stated this was a friendly agreement. Koepka is a competitive type who thrives in top-level competition, which he rarely experienced at LIV. He initially moved to LIV in 2022 due to injuries threatening to end his career and to secure a solid retirement fund. Thus, skipping the final contractual season is not surprising, although questions remain about potential buyouts or repayments. Koepka, 35, remains owner of his LIV team Smash GC, now captained by Talor Gooch.
Speculation abounds about Koepka’s next playing grounds: immediately eligible for the DP World Tour, perhaps paying a penalty? Or back on the PGA Tour, currently serving a one-year suspension following his last LIV event after previous lifetime bans were softened? Why be vindictive when every LIV returnee benefits the longer-established tour? ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership post-2022 and rejoin the player circle.
An eventual suspension would end in August, coinciding with the 2026 season close at the Tour Championship Aug 27-30. Koepka would be eligible for 2027 when the PGA Tour launches a compressed schedule with nearly two dozen $20 million tournaments featuring elite limited fields—a perfect moment for his return, fitting his style. PGA Tour Enterprises investors would welcome another marquee name.
\”He might need some time, but I believe he’ll return to the PGA Tour,\” said Jon Rahm in the \”Subpar\” podcast. \”He’ll likely play at least the minimum events, focusing on big tournaments he likes. If eligible for premier events, he’ll compete in those as well.\” Also, the PGA Tour’s board, player directors, and Tiger Woods-led competition committee, following Rory McIlroy’s recommendation, could waive Koepka’s suspension.
Update: It happened just like that. Late Monday 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. He’s also confirmed for the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale, Arizona.
Enabled by the \”Returning Member Program,\” a rule created last Thursday, allowing selected LIV players to resume PGA Tour membership without suspension. Koepka’s competitive merits, including his 2023 PGA Championship victory as a fifth major, were considered.
The PGA Tour states this exemption applies to major winners and Players Championship victors from the past three years, with a deadline of February 2. \”This is a one-time, clearly defined opportunity and sets no precedent,\” said CEO Brian Rolapp. \”Once closed, there’s no guarantee this path returns.\” This could influence Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau, Cam Smith, and cause unease in