First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh returning, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the LIV Golf League for the 2026 season starting on February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion will stay connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for his family. This was amicably agreed upon, according to the official statement from LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka is a competitor who thrives in high-level competition, which he hardly experienced in LIV. He initially joined LIV in 2022 mainly because he feared his career would end prematurely due to injuries and wanted to secure a solid retirement fund. Thus, skipping the final contractual playing year is not surprising, though questions remain about potential payouts or buyouts. He remains owner of the LIV team Smash GC, with Talor Gooch as the new captain.
Speculation grows about where Koepka will next play. The DP World Tour would grant immediate playing privileges, possibly against a penalty fee, or the PGA Tour, where he must serve a one-year suspension imposed after his last LIV appearance. This suspension was softened from an initial lifetime ban by former commissioner Jay Monahan. Why be vengeful when every returning LIV player benefits the long-dominant PGA Tour? This question seems partially answered: ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership and rejoin the player pool after 2022.
The suspension could expire in August, coinciding with the end of the 2026 season at the Tour Championship from August 27-30. Koepka would be eligible for 2027 when the PGA Tour rolls out a compressed schedule with nearly two dozen $20 million events with limited fields—perfect timing for his return. PGA Tour Enterprises investors would also welcome another big name. \”He may need some time, but I think he’ll return to the PGA Tour,\” said Jon Rahm recently on the \”Subpar\” podcast. \”He’ll probably play at least the minimum and picks tournaments he likes, especially the big ones. If he qualifies or is invited to high-profile events, he would play those too.\” It is possible PGA Tour leadership, including Tiger Woods’ competition committee and player directors, may be lenient given Rory McIlroy’s endorsement of Koepka’s immediate reinstatement.
Update: It happened exactly as expected. Monday evening local time, it spread rapidly that Koepka is immediately eligible to play on the PGA Tour and will debut at the Farmers Insurance Open in late January at Torrey Pines. He also confirmed his participation at the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale in Arizona.
This was made possible by the \”Returning Member Program,\” created last Thursday, allowing selected LIV players to regain PGA Tour membership without suspension. Koepka’s sporting achievements, especially his 2023 PGA Championship win as his fifth major, were