Brooks Koepka takes the step back to the PGA Tour, sharing insights at a press conference on his reasons for returning.
At a PGA Tour press conference ahead of 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 played a PGA Tour event. On Tuesday morning, the five-time major champion met the media again for the first time since his return.
It quickly became clear to Koepka that 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 openly. At the same time, gratitude prevails: \”But it feels good. I’m very 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, much is new for Koepka. \”There are many guys I haven’t met in the last three, three and a half years,\” he explained. Still, he is excited to be part of tour life again. The main reason for his return was not sporting. Koepka repeatedly emphasized the role of his family. \”Definitely my family. A lot has happened in the last five, six months,\” he said. The decision to return was the result of intense conversations: \”Those were difficult talks, 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 the ability to have my family with me all the time,\” Koepka said. His joy is even greater that his wife and son can now accompany him: \”My wife is coming this week, my son this week and next week.\” His perspective has changed a lot 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 enjoyed the journey wherever I was,\” he said. Still, he looks ahead with clear 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)—I’m very grateful to all who made this possible.\”
The First Call Went to Tiger Woods
Tiger Woods was the first person Koepka called when he was released from LIV Golf and decided to pursue a return to the PGA Tour. \”I 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 didn’t quite know what to do. Tiger was the first person I thought of,\” Koepka said. He further explained that Woods is someone he had relied on in the past for questions and problems and that this call was \”the easiest decision\” for him.
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