Brooks Koepka takes the step back to the PGA Tour and shares insights in a press conference about his reasons for returning.
At a PGA Tour press conference before his comeback debut, 35-year-old golf professional Brooks Koepka, returning from the LIV Golf League, spoke openly. Since the WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play 2022, Koepka had not competed in a PGA Tour event. On Tuesday morning, the five-time major champion addressed the media for the first time since his return.
Koepka quickly made it clear: This comeback feels different even for a five-time major winner. \”I think it feels a bit different. I’m definitely a bit more nervous this week, simply because I’m coming back,\” Koepka said candidly. At the same time, gratitude outweighs nerves: \”But it feels good. I’m super thankful 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, many things are new to Koepka. \”There are many guys I haven’t known in the last three, three and a half years,\” he explained. Still, the anticipation to be part of tour life again is great. The main reason for his return was not athletic. Koepka repeatedly emphasized the role of his family. \”Clearly, it’s my family. A lot has happened in the last five, six months,\” he said. The decision to return was the result of intense discussions: \”Those were tough conversations, but it was the best for me and my family.\” His wife, team, and himself agreed it was \”the right decision.\”
\”What I missed most was being able to have my family with me all the time,\” Koepka said. His joy is even greater now that his wife and son can accompany him: \”My wife is coming this week, my son is coming this week and also next week.\” His perspective has changed significantly in recent years. \”I have grown a lot over the last 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 visible motivation: \”I’m 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) – to everyone who made this possible, I’m super thankful.\”
The First Call Went to Tiger Woods
Tiger Woods was the first person he called when he was released from LIV Golf and decided to seek re-entry onto the PGA Tour. \”I’ve always had a good relationship with Tiger and wanted to do exactly that. When I got the chance to play again on the PGA Tour, it was exciting, but honestly, I wasn’t quite sure what to do. Tiger was the first person I thought of,\” Koepka said. He added that Woods has been someone he could rely on in the past for questions and problems, making that call \”the easiest decision\” for