First start already at the Farmers Insurance Open, Vijay Singh returns, Charley Hull launches YouTube channel. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting on February 7 in Riyadh. The five-time major champion will remain connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for his family. This was amicably agreed upon, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. However, Koepka, known as a competitor who thrives on high-level contests, seemed less motivated during his LIV tenure. He initially joined LIV in 2022 mainly to secure a retirement fund due to injuries threatening his career. Hence, his decision to forgo the final contractual season is understandable, though questions remain about possible buyouts or repayments. It is uncertain whether the 35-year-old retains ownership of his LIV team Smash GC, recently captained by Talor Gooch.
Speculation surrounds on which tours Koepka will play next—back to the DP World Tour where he is immediately eligible, possibly with a penalty, or the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension following his last LIV appearance after previously imposed lifetime bans were significantly relaxed. Returning to the PGA Tour might benefit both Koepka and the dominant tour. ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported that Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership.
A potential suspension would expire in August, aligning with the end of the 2026 season and the Tour Championship. This timing positions Koepka for eligibility in 2027 when the PGA Tour introduces a new schedule featuring almost two dozen $20 million tournaments with limited fields, an ideal comeback scenario. Investors in PGA Tour Enterprises, likely the new premier league’s backers, would welcome another marquee name.
Jon Rahm recently expressed optimism on the \”Subpar\” podcast, suggesting Koepka might initially play a minimum schedule, focusing on his favorite major events. The PGA Tour’s competition committee, led by Tiger Woods, and player directors, including Rory McIlroy who supports Koepka’s immediate return, hold influence over suspension matters.
Update: Koepka has officially regained PGA Tour eligibility effective immediately and will compete 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 \”Returning Member Program,\” a new rule allowing selected LIV players to reinstate PGA membership without suspension. Koepka’s sporting merits, notably winning the 2023 PGA Championship, were decisive for this exception.
The PGA Tour states the provision applies to major and Players Championship winners from the last three years and ends February 2. CEO Brian Rolapp emphasized this is a one-time, clearly defined opportunity, not setting precedent. This development impacts players like Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau, and Cam Smith, creating tension within LIV Golf.
Koepka must donate $5 million to PGA Tour charities, is excluded from 2026 FedEx Cup bonus eligibility, and barred for five years from the PGA Tour’s capital participation program linked to