Koepka Seeks Reinstatement: Plans PGA Tour Comeback in 2026 Season

Bryson DeChambeau confirms LIV Golf 2026 start, Vijay Singh returns to PGA Tour, Charley Hull to launch YouTube channel. The Back Nine. Brooks Koepka has opted out of the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh, reportedly to spend more time with family, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. The five-time major winner, who joined LIV in 2022 amid injury concerns and retirement considerations, is now stirring speculation about his future playing opportunities, including a possible return to the PGA Tour or DP World Tour. According to ESPN’s Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reinstate his previously expired PGA Tour membership, aiming for a comeback. His potential one-year suspension on the PGA Tour would end in August 2026, allowing him eligibility for the 2027 season’s new high-profile tournament schedule. Jon Rahm recently suggested Koepka will likely return to the PGA Tour, at least part-time, and noted support from players and fans alike, including backing from Rory McIlroy and the Tiger Woods-led competition committee. Meanwhile, Bryson DeChambeau officially confirmed his 2026 LIV Golf participation with the Crushers squad, including Charles Howell III, Paul Casey, and Anirban Lahiri, although no contract extension details were disclosed. Vijay Singh, the three-time major champion from Fiji, surprised fans by returning to the PGA Tour at 62, using a career money list exemption to play the Sony Open in Hawaii. The Tomorrow’s Golf League (TGL) faces declining viewer numbers in its second season without Tiger Woods, highlighting the challenge of maintaining fan interest. Charley Hull announced plans to launch her own YouTube channel, following DeChambeau’s lead, aiming to debut in summer with a show titled “The Sweet Spot.” Jason Day mystified the golf world with a cryptic “I’ve quit” Instagram post, fueling speculation on his future, possibly focusing more on his new YouTube channel “The Lads.” Tom Phillips will take over as CEO of the Ladies European Tour starting April 6, bringing extensive global golf experience. Derek Sprague resigned as PGA of America CEO after one year, citing family priorities and responsibilities. In a notable moment, golfing legends Bernhard Langer, Sir Nick Faldo, Ian Woosnam, and Sandy Lyle gathered to reminisce about their careers and the late Severiano Ballesteros in a widely praised roundtable moderated by Iona Stephen.