First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh aims for a comeback, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. 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As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf League season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for family. LIV CEO Scott McNeil stated this was amicably agreed upon. Koepka is known as a competitive type, highly motivated at elite competition, which he lacked somewhat at LIV. He originally joined LIV in 2022 due to injury concerns about his career ending, seeking a comfortable retirement fund. Hence, skipping his final contracted season is unsurprising, though questions remain about possible buyouts or salary repayments. Koepka remains owner of LIV team Smash GC, with Talor Gooch as captain.
Speculation arises where Koepka will next appear: the DP World Tour, where he could immediately play—probably with a penalty? Or the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension after his last LIV event, following relaxation of lifelong bans by former commissioner Jay Monahan? Why retaliate when returning LIV players benefit the established tour? This critical question seems partly answered: ESPN’s Mark Schlabach reported Koepka formally applied to reinstate his PGA Tour membership last Friday.
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The potential ban would expire in August, coinciding with the 2026 season finale, the Tour Championship from August 27–30. Koepka would be eligible for 2027 in the PGA Tour’s new schedule with about two dozen $20-million tournaments and limited elite fields—a perfect comeback opportunity suiting Koepka. The investors behind PGA Tour Enterprises would welcome this star addition.
Jon Rahm recently told the \”Subpar\” podcast: \”He might need some time, but I think he’ll return to the PGA Tour. He’ll likely at least play the minimum, and why not the tournaments he likes—the big ones. If he qualifies or is invited to elite events, he’ll play those too.\” There may be leniency for a five-time major winner as the board, player directors, and Tiger Woods-led competition committee have influence, with Rory McIlroy endorsing Koepka’s immediate return.
Update: Exactly so. Monday evening news spread rapidly that Koepka is immediately eligible for the PGA Tour and will tee off at the Farmers Insurance Open in late January at Torrey Pines. His participation at the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale is also confirmed.
This is enabled by the new \”Returning Member Program\” allowing select LIV players membership reinstatement without suspension. Koepka’s sporting merits, especially his 2023 PGA Championship win, were considered.
The PGA Tour states this special rule applies to major and Players champions from the last three years, ending February 2. PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp said, \”This is a one-time, clearly defined opportunity and does not set a