First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh returns, Charley Hull soon 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As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner remains linked to the rival circuit but needs more family time. This was agreed upon amicably, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka is a competitor who thrives on high-level competition, something he found limited in LIV. He switched in 2022 mainly due to injury concerns and to secure a solid retirement payout. Hence, skipping the final contracted season is understandable, though questions remain about contract buyouts or salary repayments. Will the 35-year-old remain owner of his LIV team Smash GC, which recently named Talor Gooch captain?
Speculation grows about where Koepka will play next – the DP World Tour, where he would be eligible immediately, likely with a penalty? Or the PGA Tour, where he’s currently serving a one-year suspension since his last LIV participation, after former Commissioner Jay Monahan softened lifetime bans? Why hold grudges when every LIV returnee benefits the established tour? This key issue seems partly answered: ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which had not been extended after 2022.
An expected suspension would end in August, coinciding with the 2026 season finale at the Tour Championship from August 27 to 30. Koepka would then be eligible for 2027 under the PGA Tour’s new schedule featuring about two dozen $20 million events with limited elite fields – a perfect re-entry timing. PGA Tour Enterprises investors would also welcome such a notable name.
Jon Rahm recently opined on the \”Subpar\” podcast, \”He might need some time, but I think he will return to the PGA Tour. He’ll probably play the minimum, focusing on the big tournaments he likes, and if he qualifies or is invited to elite events, he’ll compete in those too.\” The suspension enforcement involves the Board, Player Directors, and the Tiger Woods-led competition committee, which reportedly follows Rory McIlroy’s recommendation to let Koepka play immediately.
Update: It happened as expected. On Monday evening local time, news spread fast that Koepka is immediately eligible to play on the PGA Tour and will tee off at the Farmers Insurance Open in late January at Torrey Pines. Participation at the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale in Arizona is also confirmed.
This is enabled by a rule created last Thursday called the \”Returning Member Program,\” allowing selected LIV players to resume PGA Tour membership without suspension. Koepka’s case considered his athletic merits, especially his 2023 PGA Championship as his fifth major.
The PGA Tour stated this special rule applies to major winners and Players champions of the last three years, with a deadline of February 2. \”This is a one-time, clearly defined opportunity and does not set a precedent,\” said PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp. \”Once this door closes, no guarantee this path will reopen.\” This will raise thoughts for Jon Rahm, Bryson