First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh back on the PGA Tour, and Charley Hull launching her own YouTube channel. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf League season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner intends to remain connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for his family. This amicable agreement was officially announced by LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka, known as a competitor who thrives on high-level contests, was less motivated at LIV. He had joined LIV in 2022 mainly due to injury concerns and the opportunity to secure a solid retirement fund. Thus, missing the last contracted season is unsurprising, although questions remain about buyouts or repayment of guaranteed fees. He remains the owner of his LIV team Smash GC, which has appointed Talor Gooch as new captain.
Speculation about Koepka’s future playing venues is widespread. He is likely eligible immediately on the DP World Tour—possibly after a penalty payment? Or on the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year ban following his last LIV appearance after earlier lifetime bans by former commissioner Jay Monahan were softened. Why be vindictive when every high-profile LIV returnee benefits the more dominant tour? ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported that Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed after 2022, seeking reinstatement.
Any ban would expire in August, coinciding with the end of the 2026 PGA Tour season at the Tour Championship from August 27-30. Koepka would be fully eligible for 2027 under PGA’s new schedule condensed to about two dozen $20 million tournaments with limited, stronger fields. This timing suits Koepka perfectly. A prominent name like his would also please investors behind PGA Tour Enterprises, likely the new top league’s backers.
Jon Rahm recently told the ‘Subpar’ podcast, \”He may need some time, but I think he’ll return to the PGA Tour. He’ll likely play at least the minimum, focusing on his favored big events, and if he qualifies for top tournaments, he’d play those too.\” Possibly, the PGA Tour might grant Koepka leniency on his ban—decisions involve the board, player directors, and Tiger Woods-led competition committee—and Rory McIlroy has recommended allowing Koepka to compete immediately.
Update: It happened as expected. Monday evening news spread rapidly that Koepka is immediately eligible to play on the PGA Tour and will tee off at the Farmers Insurance Open late January in Torrey Pines. His participation at the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale, Arizona, is also confirmed. This is enabled by the newly introduced ‘Returning Member Program’ created last Thursday, allowing select LIV players to rejoin the PGA Tour without suspension. Koepka’s sporting merits, especially his 2023 PGA Championship win as his fifth major, were considered. The PGA Tour stated this special rule applies to major and Players winners over the last three years, with a deadline of February 2. PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp said, \”This is a one-time, clearly defined opportunity and does not set precedent for