First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh aims for a comeback, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting on February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion remains connected to the competing circuit but needs more time for family. This mutual agreement was announced officially by LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka is a competitor who thrives on top-level competition, something he lacked at LIV. He joined LIV in 2022 mainly because injury made him fear an early end to his career and he sought a good retirement fund. Given this, his avoidance of the final contractual playing year is not surprising, although questions remain. Did he have to buy out of his contract or return part of the guaranteed payments? Does the 35-year-old remain owner of his LIV team Smash GC, now captained by Talor Gooch?
Speculation abounds about where Koepka will next play. The DP World Tour would grant him immediate playing rights, possibly with a penalty, or the PGA Tour where he would serve a one-year suspension after his last LIV appearance, after previously lifetime bans were significantly eased. Why hold a grudge when every LIV returnee benefits the established tour that holds the leverage? This question seems partly answered. According to ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reinstate his PGA Tour membership, which he had not renewed after 2022.
An eventual suspension would expire in August. Although the 2026 season ends with the Tour Championship from August 27 to 30, Koepka would be eligible for 2027 when the PGA Tour introduces a new schedule featuring nearly two dozen $20-million tournaments with limited top fields. The perfect timing for Koepka’s return, to his liking. PGA Tour Enterprises investors would also welcome a strong name back in the top league.
\”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 eligible for top events, he will play those.\” Perhaps the PGA Tour will waive the suspension for the five-time major winner – decisions involving the board, player directors, and the Tiger Woods-led competition committee may allow a direct return, following Rory McIlroy’s recommendation.
Update: Just as expected, news spread Monday evening that Koepka is immediately eligible for the PGA Tour and will tee off at the Farmers Insurance Open late January at Torrey Pines, also confirmed for the WM Phoenix Open in Scottsdale.
Enabled by the new \”Returning Member Program,\” created last Thursday, which allows select LIV players to regain PGA Tour membership without suspension. Koepka’s recent sporting merits, especially his 2023 PGA Championship win as fifth major, were considered.
The PGA Tour states the rule applies to major and Players Championship winners of the past three years. The deadline is February 2. \”This is a one-time, clearly defined opportunity and does not set precedent