First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh ready for a comeback, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn from the LIV Golf League for the 2026 season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner will remain connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for his family. This was reportedly amicably agreed upon, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka, known as a competitive type who thrives in high-level competition, found less motivation playing on LIV. He initially joined LIV in 2022 mainly due to injury concerns near career end and to secure a substantial retirement fund. Hence, his skipping the last contract season is not surprising, though questions remain about potential payouts and whether he still owns the LIV team Smash GC, now captained by Talor Gooch.
Speculation is rife about which fairways Koepka will appear on next. The DP World Tour would grant him immediate playing rights (possibly with a penalty), or the PGA Tour where he faces a one-year suspension from his last LIV event, now significantly reduced from a lifetime ban. Following ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach’s report, Koepka formally applied to reinstate his PGA Tour membership last Friday and rejoin the playing group.
An eventual suspension would end in August, coinciding with the Tour Championship’s 2026 season finale. For 2027, Koepka would be fully eligible when the PGA Tour launches its compressed schedule of nearly two dozen $20 million events with limited, top-tier fields — an ideal moment for his return. PGA Tour Enterprises’ investors would welcome another high-profile name.
\”He may need some time, but I think he’ll return to the PGA Tour,\” said Jon Rahm on the \”Subpar\” podcast. \”He’ll probably play the minimum, focusing on big events he likes. If he qualifies or can enter top tournaments, he’d play those too.\” The decision-makers — including the board, player directors, and the competition committee led by Tiger Woods — hold influence on the suspension, reportedly inclined by Rory McIlroy’s recommendation to reinstate Koepka immediately.
Update: That is exactly what happened. 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 in late January at Torrey Pines. His participation in the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale, Arizona is also confirmed.
This is enabled by the new \”Returning Member Program,\” established last Thursday, allowing selected LIV players to regain PGA Tour membership without suspension. Koepka’s major achievements, including his 2023 PGA Championship win, were key considerations.
The PGA Tour stated this special rule applies to major winners and Players Champions of the past three years with a deadline of February 2. PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp said, \”This is a one-time, clearly defined opportunity and does not set a precedent for future cases. Once this door closes, no guarantee it will reopen.\” This development likely impacts prominent LIV players like Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau, and Cam