First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh eager to compete again, Charley Hull launching YouTube channel soon. 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As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion will remain connected with the competing circuit but needs more time for family. This was amicably agreed upon, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka is a competitive type who thrives in top-level sporting contests, which he somewhat lacked at LIV. He originally joined LIV in 2022 mainly because of injury concerns and to secure a good retirement fund. Therefore, it is not surprising he gave up the last contractually obligated playing season, though questions remain if he had to buy out or repay part of his guaranteed salary. Also, is he still owner of LIV team Smash GC, which has already named Talor Gooch as new captain?
Speculations arise on where Koepka will appear next: DP World Tour, where he would have immediate playing rights, possibly with a penalty? Or the PGA Tour, where he must serve a one-year suspension since his last LIV event, after the previously imposed lifetime bans by former Commissioner Jay Monahan were significantly reduced? Why be vengeful when every LIV returnee ultimately benefits the established tour? This key question seems partially answered. According to ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership after not renewing it post-2022 and to be reinstated as a player.
Any suspension would expire in August, coinciding with the end of the 2026 season at the Tour Championship from August 27–30. Koepka would be eligible for 2027 when the PGA Tour introduces its new schedule with about two dozen $20-million tournaments and limited fields fully stacked. A perfect time for a comeback, fitting Koepka’s style. PGA Tour Enterprises investors would welcome another big name. \”He might need some time, but I think he will return to the PGA Tour,\” said Jon Rahm recently on the \”Subpar\” podcast. \”He will probably play at least the minimum, the tournaments he likes, the big ones. If he qualifies for high-profile events or can participate, he will play those as well.\” Perhaps the PGA Tour will be lenient with the suspension for a five-time major winner. Besides the board, player directors and Tiger Woods-led competition committee have influence, following Rory McIlroy’s recommendation to allow Koepka immediate play.
Update: That is exactly what 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 end of January at Torrey Pines. His participation at the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale, Arizona, is also confirmed.
This was made