Koepka Applies for PGA Tour Membership, Prepares for Return in 2027

Bryson DeChambeau confirms LIV start in 2026; Vijay Singh aims for PGA comeback at 62; Charley Hull to launch YouTube channel. The Back Nine.Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf League season starting February 7 in Riyadh, stating he needs more time for his family but remains connected to the rival circuit. This was the official statement by LIV CEO Scott McNeil, though speculation surrounds Koepka’s future tournament appearances. Known for his competitive nature on top levels, Koepka’s motivation in LIV was questioned, considering he joined in 2022 mainly to secure financial stability after injury fears ended his prior plans. Questions remain whether he had to buy out his contract or refund part of his guaranteed salary, and if he retains ownership of his LIV team Smash GC, now led by Talor Gooch. Speculations continue on whether Koepka will play soon on the DP World Tour, where he’d have immediate eligibility likely with a penalty, or seek a return to the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension after his last LIV event, following significantly relaxed lifetime bans previously imposed. ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported Koepka recently formally requested reactivation of his PGA Tour membership, aiming to rejoin the player field. Any suspension would expire in August, aligning with the Tour Championship end of the 2026 season, making Koepka eligible for 2027’s PGA Tour, which plans a compressed schedule with about two dozen $20 million events featuring limited, top-tier fields—a perfect moment for his comeback. PGA Tour Enterprises investors would welcome such a high-profile name. Jon Rahm recently expressed confidence that Koepka will return, likely playing minimum events including the majors he prefers, and potentially more as qualification or invitations allow. The player board and Tiger Woods-led competition committee reportedly lean toward waiving restrictions for a five-time major winner, with Rory McIlroy endorsing Koepka’s immediate return. Fans appear to support this sentiment according to an informal poll by “Bunkered.” Meanwhile, Bryson DeChambeau confirmed he will compete in the LIV Golf League in 2026 with his Crushers team unchanged. Vijay Singh, at 62, is making a surprise PGA Tour return using a career money ranking exemption and will play the Sony Open in Hawaii this week, after a successful stint on the PGA Tour Champions. The Tomorrow’s Golf League (TGL) struggles with TV ratings without Tiger Woods, who was a major draw in season one. Organizers including Woods and Rory McIlroy need to find new star attractions as the new season’s audience has notably dropped. Charley Hull announced plans to launch her own YouTube channel, following DeChambeau’s successful digital presence, with a series titled “The Sweet Spot” planned for summer. Jason Day cryptically hinted at a change, stating “I’ve quit” on Instagram without specifics, sparking speculation about his future focus possibly on media projects over playing full time. Tom Phillips will become the new CEO of the Ladies European Tour in April, bringing over 25 years’ global golf industry experience. Derek Sprague steps down as PGA of America CEO after one year to prioritize family. The PGA had recently faced criticism over downplaying fan incidents at Bethpage Black, prompting public apologies. Finally, golf legends