First start at the Farmers, Vijay Singh returns, Charley Hull launches YouTube channel. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner will remain connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for family, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka, a fierce competitor who thrives on top-level contests, lacked motivation during his LIV stint and had joined LIV in 2022 mainly due to injury concerns and securing his retirement fund. His opting out of the last contractual season raises questions about possible buyouts or repayments. He remains owner of the LIV team Smash GC, which recently appointed Talor Gooch captain.
Speculation grows about Koepka’s next tour appearances: DP World Tour, where he would be eligible immediately, possibly subject to a penalty, or PGA Tour, where a one-year suspension from his last LIV event remains after the lifetime bans were softened. Why seek revenge when every LIV returnee strengthens the PGA Tour? According to ESPN’s Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reinstate his PGA Tour membership and rejoin the player pool.
Any suspension would end in August, coinciding with the 2026 season’s close at the Tour Championship (August 27-30). Koepka would be eligible in 2027 under the PGA Tour’s revamped schedule featuring about two dozen $20 million events with limited, top-tier fields, perfect for his comeback. This would also please investors in PGA Tour Enterprises, expected to run the new top league.
\”He may need some time, but I think he’ll return to the PGA Tour,\” said Jon Rahm recently on the \”Subpar\” podcast. \”He’ll probably play the minimum, focusing on big events he likes. If he qualifies for high-profile tournaments, he’ll play those too.\” It’s possible Koepka’s suspension could be waived, as the player directors and the competitor committee led by Tiger Woods have influence, aligned with Rory McIlroy’s recommendation to allow Koepka immediate play.
Update: It came true: Koepka is now immediately eligible on the PGA Tour and will play the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines in late January, with the WM Phoenix Open also confirmed.
This is enabled by the \”Returning Member Program,\” a new rule