First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh eager for more, Charley Hull to launch YouTube soon. 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As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner will remain connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for his family. This was reportedly agreed upon amicably, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil. However, Koepka is a competitor who thrives in high-level competition, which he rarely found at LIV. He initially joined LIV in 2022 due to injuries threatening his career and to secure a solid retirement fund. Hence, skipping the final contractual season is not surprising, though questions remain whether he had to buy out or repay part of his guaranteed salary, and whether he still owns his LIV team Smash GC, which appointed Talor Gooch as captain.
Speculation revolves around where Koepka will appear next: the DP World Tour, where he would be immediately eligible, possibly with a penalty; or the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension following his last LIV appearance after permanent bans from former commissioner Jay Monahan were significantly softened. Why be vindictive when every LIV returnee, especially a prominent one, benefits the dominant tour? This question seems partly answered as ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported that Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which lapsed after 2022, seeking reinstatement.
See this post on InstagramA post shared by GOLF.com // GOLF Magazine (@golf_com)
Koepka’s potential ban expires in August, coinciding with the conclusion of the 2026 season after the Tour Championship (August 27-30). He would be eligible for the 2027 season aligned with the PGA Tour’s revamped schedule featuring around two dozen $20 million tournaments with limited top fields—a perfect timing for a comeback. PGA Tour Enterprises investors, likely backing the new top league, would welcome another high-profile name.
Jon Rahm recently commented on the podcast \”Subpar,\” that Koepka might need time but is expected to return to the PGA Tour, playing at least select tournaments he favors, including majors. The PGA Tour leadership and player directors, led by Tiger Woods on the competition committee, may grant leniency following Rory McIlroy’s recommendation to allow Koepka immediate participation.
Update: It happened as expected. On Monday evening local time, news spread rapidly that Koepka is immediately eligible to play on 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.
Enabled by the recently introduced \”Returning Member Program,\” which allows selected LIV players to regain PGA Tour membership without suspension. Koepka’s achievements, notably his 2023 PGA Championship win, were considered.