Brooks Koepka takes a step back to the PGA Tour and shares insights into his reasons for returning in a press conference.
The 35-year-old golf professional Brooks Koepka, returning from the LIV Golf League, spoke at a PGA Tour press conference before his comeback debut. Since the WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play 2022, Koepka had not participated in any PGA Tour tournaments. On Tuesday morning, the five-time major champion spoke with the media for the first time since his return.
Koepka quickly realized: this comeback feels a bit different, even for a five-time major winner. \”I think it feels a little different. I am definitely a bit more nervous this week, simply because I am coming back,\” Koepka said openly. At the same time, gratitude prevails: \”But it feels good. I am super grateful to be back here.\”
Brooks Koepka: \”Being close to my family is very important to me\”
After three and a half years away from the PGA Tour, much is new for Koepka. \”There are many guys I haven’t known for the past three, three and a half years,\” he explained. Nevertheless, the anticipation to be part of tour life again is great. The most important reason for his return was not sporting. Koepka repeatedly emphasized the role of his family. \”Clearly, my family. A lot has happened in the past five or six months,\” he said. The decision to return was the result of intense discussions: \”Those were difficult talks, but it was the best for me and my family.\” His wife, his team, and himself agreed that \”this is the right decision.\”
\”What I missed the most was the ability to have my family with me all the time,\” Koepka said. Even more joyful is that his wife and son can now accompany him: \”My wife is coming this week, my son is coming this week and also next week.\” His perspective has significantly changed over the past years. \”I have grown a lot in recent years – especially in the last months. Being close to my family is very important to me.\”
Looking back, Koepka does not regret his path. \”I have learned a lot and always enjoyed the journey no matter where I was,\” he explained. Nevertheless, he looks forward with noticeable motivation: \”I am excited about this new chapter and grateful to be here.\” He especially thanked those who made his return possible: \”Brian Rolapp, Jay (Monahan), Tiger (Woods) – I am super grateful to all who made this possible.\”
The first call was to Tiger Woods
Tiger Woods was the first person he called when he was released from LIV Golf and decided to pursue a re-entry to the PGA Tour. \”I have always had a good relationship with Tiger and wanted to do exactly that. When I got the opportunity to play again on the PGA Tour, it was exciting, but honestly, I didn’t really know what to do. Tiger was the first person I thought of,\” Koepka said. He further explained that Woods is someone he could rely on in the past for questions and problems and that this call was