First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh ready for a comeback, Charley Hull launching on YouTube soon. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion will stay connected to the rival circuit but needs more family time. LIV CEO Scott McNeil stated this was agreed amicably, though Koepka, known as a competitor who thrives on high-level contests, appeared less motivated in LIV. He joined LIV in 2022 mainly because injuries nearly ended his career, and he sought a solid retirement fund. Thus, skipping the last contracted season isn’t surprising, though questions remain about buyouts or paybacks. He also remains owner of LIV team Smash GC led by new captain Talor Gooch.
Speculations abound on where Koepka will compete next: DP World Tour where he’d be immediately eligible, possibly with a penalty, or the PGA Tour where he faces a one-year suspension after his last LIV event, following the easing of lifetime bans by former commissioner Jay Monahan. This key question appears partly answered. ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reports Koepka formally applied last Friday to reinstate his PGA Tour membership, ending his hiatus after 2022.
An eventual suspension would expire in August, coinciding with the end of the 2026 season’s Tour Championship. Koepka would be eligible for 2027 when the PGA Tour launches a compressed schedule with about two dozen $20 million events featuring limited top fields — ideal timing for his return. PGA Tour Enterprises investors would also favor adding such a marquee name.
\”He might need some time, but I think he’ll return to the PGA Tour,\” said Jon Rahm recently on the \”Subpar\” podcast. \”He’ll probably play a minimum schedule and the big events he likes. If he qualifies or gets invites to big tournaments, he’ll play those too.\” It’s possible the PGA Tour might waive suspensions for the five-time major winner, with input from the board, player directors, and Tiger Woods-led competition committee, echoing Rory McIlroy’s support for Koepka’s immediate return.
Update: It happened just like that. Monday evening local time, news spread rapidly that Koepka is immediately eligible to compete 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 newly created \”Returning Member Program\” announced last Thursday, allowing selected LIV players to regain PGA Tour membership without suspension. In Koepka’s case, his recent accomplishments, especially the 2023 PGA Championship title, were considered.
The PGA Tour states the special rule applies to major and Players champions of the last three years, with a deadline of February 2. \”This is a one-time, clearly defined opportunity and not a precedent for future cases,\” said PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp. This will surely concern Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau, and Cam Smith, and cause unease in LIV Golf League circles.