First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh returns to compete, Charley Hull launches YouTube channel. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7th in Riyadh; the five-time major winner remains connected to the competing circuit but needs more time for family. This was mutually agreed upon, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka, a competitor who thrives at the highest level of sport, was somewhat unmotivated at LIV. He switched to LIV in 2022 mainly because of injury concerns and to secure a strong retirement fund. Thus, skipping the final contractual season is not surprising, though questions remain. Did he buy out his contract or repay part of his guaranteed salary? Does the 35-year-old still own his LIV team Smash GC, which appointed Talor Gooch as new captain?
Speculation grows about which tours Koepka will join next. The DP World Tour would grant him immediate eligibility, possibly with a penalty, or the PGA Tour where he would serve a one-year suspension following his last LIV appearance, after previously imposed lifetime bans were significantly eased. Why hold grudges when each LIV returnee, especially a star like Koepka, benefits the PGA Tour’s strengthened position? This key question seems partly answered. ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported that Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed after 2022.
An eventual suspension would end in August, coinciding with the 2026 season finale at the Tour Championship from August 27-30. Koepka would be eligible for 2027 when the PGA Tour rolls out a new schedule with about two dozen $20 million events featuring limited, top-tier fields. The perfect timing for a return, fitting Koepka’s style. PGA Tour Enterprises investors would welcome another big name.
\”He might need some time, but I think he’ll return to the PGA Tour,\” said Jon Rahm recently on the \”Subpar\” podcast. \”He’ll likely play at least the minimum and why not the big tournaments he enjoys? If he qualifies or gets invited to elite events, he would compete as well.\” There could be leniency regarding his suspension from the PGA Tour board, player directors, and the competition committee led by Tiger Woods, echoing Rory McIlroy’s endorsement to let Koepka play immediately.
Update: Indeed, it happened. On Monday evening local time, news spread that Koepka is immediately eligible to play on the PGA Tour and will tee off at the Farmers Insurance Open late January in Torrey Pines. His participation at the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale in Arizona is also confirmed.
This became possible due to the \”Returning Member Program,\” a rule created last Thursday allowing selected LIV players to regain PGA Tour membership without suspension. Koepka’s sporting merits, notably his 2023 PGA Championship title—the fifth major—were considered.
The PGA Tour statement clarifies the special rule applies to major and Players Championship winners from the past three years. The deadline is February 2nd. \”This is a one