First start at the Farmers, Vijay Singh’s comeback, Charley Hull heading to YouTube. 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As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion will stay connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for family, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka, known as a fierce competitor, had limited motivation in LIV, especially after joining in 2022 due to injury concerns and securing a retirement fund. Speculations surround possible appearances on the DP World Tour, where he would be eligible immediately, possibly with a penalty, or on the PGA Tour, where a one-year suspension was imposed after his last LIV event. However, recent reports from ESPN’s Mark Schlabach reveal Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership and return to the player pool.
Possible suspension would end in August, coinciding with the conclusion of the 2026 season at the Tour Championship from August 27-30. Koepka would be eligible for 2027 with the PGA Tour’s new schedule featuring nearly two dozen $20 million events with limited, top-tier fields, an ideal return timing. Even investors in PGA Tour Enterprises would likely welcome Koepka’s return. Jon Rahm recently expressed confidence on the \”Subpar\” podcast that Koepka would return to the PGA Tour, likely playing selective events, especially the majors. The PGA Tour’s Competition Committee, led by Tiger Woods, along with player directors, may allow an exception for Koepka’s reinstatement, supported by Rory McIlroy’s recommendation.
Update: It has happened: Koepka is immediately eligible to play on the PGA Tour, with confirmed participation at the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines late January and the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale, Arizona.
This became possible through the newly created \”Returning Member Program,\” allowing certain LIV players to regain PGA Tour membership without suspension. Koepka’s sporting merits, including his 2023 PGA Championship win, were key factors.
The PGA Tour states this special rule applies to major and Players Championship winners from the last three years, with a deadline of February 2. PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp called it a unique, clearly defined opportunity with no guarantee of future availability, which may concern players like Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau