First start at the Farmers, Vijay Singh returns, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the LIV Golf League for the 2026 season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for his family. This was reportedly agreed amicably, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka is a competitive type who thrives in high-level contests, something he found limited in LIV. He joined LIV in 2022 primarily due to injury concerns threatening his career and to secure a solid retirement fund. Thus, giving up the last contractually obligated season isn’t surprising, though questions remain about potential buyouts or repayment of guaranteed pay. He remains owner of LIV team Smash GC, which has named Talor Gooch as new captain.
Speculations abound about where Koepka will next appear: DP World Tour, where he would be eligible immediately, possibly with a penalty? Or the PGA Tour, where he must serve a one-year suspension since his last LIV appearance, after former Commissioner Jay Monahan softened lifetime bans. Why be vindictive if every LIV returnee strengthens the long-dominant Tour? ESPN’s Mark Schlabach reported Koepka formally requested reinstatement and membership on the PGA Tour, which expired after 2022.
An eventual suspension would end in August, coinciding with season 2026 finale at the Tour Championship (Aug 27–30). Then, Koepka would be eligible in 2027 under PGA Tour’s new schedule featuring limited fields and about two dozen $20-million tournaments – ideal timing for his return. Investors in PGA Tour Enterprises, likely leading the new top league, would definitely welcome such a star.
\”He might 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, maybe the big tournaments he likes. If he qualifies or can enter top events, he’ll play those too.\” Perhaps the PGA Tour’s decision makers, including player directors and a committee led by Tiger Woods, will waive his suspension, following Rory McIlroy’s recommendation to allow Koepka immediate play.
Update: The news spread quickly Monday evening that Koepka is immediately eligible to compete on the PGA Tour, with confirmed starts at the Farmers Insurance Open in late January at Torrey Pines and the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale.
The new \”Returning Member Program,\” created last Thursday, allows select LIV players to regain PGA Tour membership without suspension. Koepka’s sporting achievements, especially his 2023 PGA Championship win, were considered.
The PGA Tour states the exemption applies to major and Players winners from the past three years, with the deadline February 2. \”This is a one-time, clearly defined opportunity, not a precedent,\” said CEO Brian Rolapp. This likely causes concern for Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau, and Cam Smith, and unease in LIV Golf.
Koepka’s penalty for joining LIV is mild: a $5 million donation to PGA Tour charity, exclusion from 2026