First start at Farmers, Vijay Singh returns, Charley Hull launching a YouTube channel. The Back Nine.
Brooks Koepka has officially opted out of the 2026 LIV Golf season beginning in Riyadh on February 7. The five-time major winner remains connected with the rival circuit, citing a need for more family time, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil. However, speculation surrounds Koepka’s future playing venues. He could join the DP World Tour immediately, or the PGA Tour where he faces a one-year suspension following his last LIV appearance. Recent reports reveal Koepka filed to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, positioning him for a timely return.
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Koepka’s suspension would expire in August 2026, coinciding with the season’s conclusion at the Tour Championship. This timing aligns well with the PGA Tour’s new condensed schedule featuring nearly two dozen $20 million tournaments with limited fields, offering an ideal stage for his comeback. Jon Rahm recently expressed confidence in Koepka’s eventual return, noting that he would likely play select preferred events initially, especially high-profile tournaments.
Update: Koepka is now immediately eligible for the PGA Tour and will tee off at the Farmers Insurance Open late January in Torrey Pines. His participation in the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale is confirmed.
This comes thanks to the newly created ‘Returning Member Program’ for select LIV players to rejoin PGA Tour without suspension, recognizing Koepka’s recent sporting merits, including his 2023 PGA Championship win.
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