First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh eager for another run, Charley Hull soon launching on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially opted out of the 2026 LIV Golf League season, which begins February 7 in Riyadh. The five-time major champion will remain connected to the competitor circuit but needs more time for his family, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement—though many doubt it. Koepka, a fierce competitive type, thrives on high-level competition, which he found partially lacking at LIV. He initially joined LIV in 2022 amid injury concerns, seeking a solid retirement fund. His opting out of the last contracted season raises questions about potential payouts and ownership status of his LIV team Smash GC, now captained by Talor Gooch.
Speculations abound about where Koepka will next compete: DP World Tour where he could be eligible immediately, possibly facing a fine, or PGA Tour where he faces a one-year suspension since his last LIV event—life bans by former Commissioner Jay Monahan having been softened. This question appears partly answered as ESPN’s Mark Schlabach reported that Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not extended after 2022.
Any suspension would expire in August, coinciding with the end of the 2026 season at the Tour Championship. Koepka would then be eligible for 2027 as PGA Tour implements its compressed schedule with roughly two dozen $20 million events featuring limited fields—ideal timing for his comeback. PGA Tour Enterprises investors would welcome the return of such a marquee name.
Jon Rahm recently expressed optimism in the ‘Subpar’ podcast, anticipating Koepka’s PGA Tour return, expecting him to play selectively in majors and other favored tournaments. Decision-makers, including the Tiger Woods-led competition committee and player directors, might ease Koepka’s suspension, especially following Rory McIlroy’s recommendation for immediate reinstatement.
Update: On Monday evening local time, news spread rapidly that Koepka is immediately eligible to play on the PGA Tour, making his return at the Farmers Insurance Open late January at Torrey Pines. His participation at the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale is confirmed.
Made possible by the recently introduced ‘Returning Member Program’, allowing select LIV players to rejoin the PGA Tour without suspension. Koepka’s sporting achievements, notably his 2023 PGA Championship win, were key considerations.
The PGA Tour stated this special rule applies only to major and Players Championship winners in the past three years, with a deadline of February 2, describing it as a unique, non-precedential opportunity. This development likely causes concern among Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau, and Cam Smith regarding LIV Golf League relations.
Koepka’s penalties for LIV participation are lenient: a $5 million charity donation, exclusion from the 2026 FedEx Cup bonus system, and a five-year ban from the PGA Tour’s equity program tied to PGA Tour Enterprises investor funds.
DeChambeau Confirms LIV Golf Return in 2026