First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh eager to compete again, Charley Hull launching on 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As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for family. This was reportedly amicably agreed upon, according to an official statement from LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka is a fierce competitor who thrives in high-level competition, something less evident during his time at LIV Golf. He initially joined LIV in 2022 partly due to injury concerns and to secure a comfortable retirement fund. Hence, skipping the final contracted season is unsurprising, although questions linger about possible buyouts or partial repayments. The 35-year-old still owns his LIV team Smash GC, now captained by Talor Gooch.
Speculation continues around where Koepka will next play: the DP World Tour, where he could be immediately eligible, possibly with a penalty, or the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension following his last LIV appearance, due to previously softened lifetime bans enforced by former commissioner Jay Monahan. Why be vindictive when each LIV returnee, especially a high-profile one, is an asset to the dominant tour? ESPN reporter Mark Schlabach confirmed Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which had not been renewed after 2022.
An eventual ban would expire in August, coinciding with the end of the 2026 season at the Tour Championship (August 27-30). Koepka would be eligible in 2027 when the PGA Tour introduces a new schedule with about two dozen $20 million events with limited, top-quality fields—a perfect scenario for a comeback. PGA Tour Enterprises investors would also welcome another marquee player.
\”He might need some time, but I think he’ll return to the PGA Tour,\” said Jon Rahm in a recent Subpar podcast interview. \”He’ll probably play at least the minimum, likely the tournaments he likes, the big ones. If he qualifies or gets into top-tier events, he’ll play those too.\” The PGA Tour executive board, player directors, and Tiger Woods-led competition committee reportedly have influence on waiver decisions and, following Rory McIlroy’s recommendation, may allow Koepka to play immediately.
Update: This has come true. Monday evening local time saw news spreading rapidly that Koepka is immediately eligible to play on the PGA Tour and will tee off at the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines at the end of January. His participation at the WM Phoenix Open in Scottsdale, Arizona, is also confirmed.
Enabled by the \”Returning Member Program,\” a rule created last Thursday allowing select LIV players to regain PGA Tour membership without suspension. For Koepka, his recent sporting achievements, notably his 2023 PGA Championship victory (his fifth major), were considered.
The PGA Tour stated the special rule applies to major and Players Championship winners from the last three years, with a deadline of February 2. \”This is a one-time, clearly defined