First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh returns, Charley Hull to launch YouTube channel. The Back Nine.
Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh, choosing more family time while remaining connected to the rival circuit, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka, a five-time major champion, had switched to LIV in 2022 largely due to injury concerns and to secure his retirement earnings. Speculation surrounds where Koepka will next compete – the DP World Tour, where he would likely face penalties, or the PGA Tour, where he faces a previously imposed one-year suspension. However, he has recently filed a formal application to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, signaling a possible return.
Koepka’s PGA Tour Reinstatement and Impact
An expected suspension would have ended in August, coinciding with the conclusion of the 2026 PGA Tour season. Jon Rahm recently expressed confidence that Koepka will return to the PGA Tour, likely focusing on major events. The PGA Tour’s newly created ‘Returning Member Program’ allows selected former LIV players to rejoin without suspension, considering their recent sporting merits, including Koepka’s 2023 PGA Championship win. PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp noted this opportunity as unique and non-precedential for the future. Koepka must contribute five million dollars to PGA Tour charity and is excluded from FedEx Cup bonuses and equity participation for specific periods as part of his reinstatement terms.
Other PGA and LIV Tour Developments
Bryson DeChambeau confirmed his participation in LIV Golf for 2026, while Vijay Singh makes a surprising return to the PGA Tour at 62, leveraging his career money list exemption. The Tomorrow’s Golf League (TGL) faces declining TV ratings without Tiger Woods, who was vital to its original success. Charley Hull announced plans for her own YouTube channel, following DeChambeau’s example, aiming to engage fans with new content. Meanwhile, Jason Day cryptically hinted at significant personal changes, sparking speculation about his professional focus. Tom Phillips has been named the new CEO of the Ladies European Tour, signaling growth for women’s golf. Derek Sprague resigned as PGA of America CEO after one year to prioritize family. A legendary roundtable featuring Bernhard Langer, Nick Faldo, Ian Woosnam, and Sandy Lyle commemorated golf milestones and the legacy of Severiano Ballesteros.