First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh ready to compete again, Charley Hull soon launching on 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As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion will stay connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for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. This was reportedly amicably agreed upon, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka, a fierce competitor who thrives on high-level competition, had limited motivation at LIV. He initially joined LIV in 2022 due to injury concerns about his career ending and to secure a solid retirement income. His decision to skip the final contract season raises questions: did he buy out of his contract or return part of his guarantee? Does the 35-year-old remain owner of the LIV Smash GC team, now captained by Talor Gooch?
Speculation abounds about which tour Koepka will appear on next: the DP World Tour where he would be immediately eligible, possibly with a penalty, or the PGA Tour where he faces a one-year suspension after his last LIV event. However, previous lifetime bans by former Commissioner Jay Monahan have been substantially softened. This key question seems partly answered: ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reports Koepka formally applied last Friday to reinstate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed after 2022, to rejoin the player ranks.
An eventual suspension would expire in August, coinciding with the end of the 2026 season and Tour Championship from August 27 to 30. Koepka would be eligible to play in 2027 when the PGA Tour launches its new schedule with about two dozen $20-million events featuring limited fields, a perfect timing for his return. Investors behind PGA Tour Enterprises, likely the new top league’s backers, would welcome another marquee name.
Even Jon Rahm recently said in the podcast \”Subpar\” that Koepka might need time but will return to the PGA Tour, likely playing at least the minimum, focusing on his favorite big events. The PGA Tour competition committee, led by Tiger Woods, and player directors may waive his suspension, following Rory McIlroy’s recommendation to allow Koepka immediate play.
Update: It has happened: On Monday evening local time, news spread quickly 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. He is also confirmed for the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale in Arizona.
This was made possible by the \”Returning Member Program,\” a rule created last Thursday allowing selected LIV players to rejoin the PGA Tour without suspension. Koepka’s recent accomplishments, notably the 2023 PGA Championship win, were considered.
The PGA Tour states that this special exemption applies to major and Players Championship winners from the last three years, with a deadline of February 2. CEO Brian Rolapp emphasized this is a one-time, clearly defined opportunity, not setting a precedent. This development likely concerns players like Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau, and Cam Smith, and causes unease in LIV Golf.
Koepka’s