First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh returns at 62, Charley Hull launches YouTube channel – 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As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh.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 intends to stay connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for his family, according to an amicable agreement with LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka, known as a competitor who thrives in high-level challenges, was only moderately motivated in LIV. Having switched in 2022 primarily due to injury concerns about his career’s end and to secure a solid retirement fund, his skipping the last contracted season is not surprising, though questions remain, such as whether he had to buy out or return part of his guaranteed pay. It also remains to be seen if the 35-year-old retains ownership of his LIV team Smash GC, who recently appointed Talor Gooch as captain.
Speculation is growing on which fairways Koepka will play next. On the DP World Tour, where he would immediately be eligible—likely with a penalty? Or the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension after his last LIV start, which was significantly reduced from a lifetime ban previously imposed by former commissioner Jay Monahan? The key question seems partially answered: ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported that last Friday Koepka formally requested to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed after 2022, seeking reinstatement in the players’ circle.
An eventual suspension would expire in August, coinciding with the end of the 2026 season at the Tour Championship from August 27–30. This would make Koepka eligible for the 2027 season, which features a compressed schedule of nearly two dozen $20 million tournaments with limited, top-ranked fields—a perfect return timing by Koepka’s preferences. PGA Tour Enterprises investors would likely welcome an additional marquee name.
Jon Rahm recently expressed confidence in Koepka’s return during the \”Subpar\” podcast, saying, \”He might need some time, but I think he will come back to the PGA Tour. He’ll probably play at least the minimum, and why not the tournaments he likes—the big ones. If he then qualifies or can enter high-profile tournaments, he’ll play those too.\” The PGA Tour’s board, players’ directors, and the competition committee led by Tiger Woods have a say regarding suspensions, with Rory McIlroy recommending Koepka be allowed to play immediately.
Update: It happened exactly like that. 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 at Torrey Pines at the end of January. Participation at the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale in Arizona is also confirmed.
This is made possible by the \”Returning Member Program,\” a new rule created last Thursday allowing selected LIV players to resume PGA Tour membership without suspension. Koepka’s sporting merits were considered, notably his 2023 PGA Championship as his fifth major.
The PGA Tour stated this special regulation applies to major and Players Championship