First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh back in action, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
Expected: Brooks Koepka has officially opted out of the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion remains connected to the competing circuit but needs more family time. This was reportedly agreed upon amicably, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka is known as a competitor who thrives on high-level competition, something he found limited on LIV. He initially joined LIV in 2022 primarily due to injury concerns and the opportunity to secure a substantial retirement fund. Thus, his decision to forgo the final contracted season is understandable, though questions remain over contract buyouts or refunds. He also remains owner of his LIV team Smash GC, which recently named Talor Gooch as the new captain.
Speculation swirls around where Koepka will play next—DP World Tour where he is likely eligible immediately, possibly with a penalty, or PGA Tour where he must serve a one-year suspension following his last LIV appearance after previous lifetime bans were softened. Why be vengeful when LIV returnees, especially a prominent figure like Koepka, benefit the established tour controlled by influential investors? ESPN’s Mark Schlabach reported that Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed after 2022.
See this post on Instagram
Any suspension would end in August, coinciding with the conclusion of the 2026 season after the Tour Championship from August 27-30. Koepka would then be eligible for 2027 under the PGA Tour’s new schedule featuring about two dozen $20 million tournaments with limited, star-studded fields — an ideal comeback timing suited to Koepka’s preferences. PGA Tour Enterprises investors would welcome another major name in the new top tier league.
Jon Rahm recently expressed confidence Koepka will return to the PGA Tour, likely playing selectively and focusing on big events. The players’ directors and Tiger Woods-led competition committee hold influence over suspensions and reportedly favor Koepka’s immediate return, supported by Rory McIlroy’s recommendation.
Update: It happened just as expected. Monday evening local time, news spread rapidly that Koepka is immediately eligible to compete on the PGA Tour, teeing off at the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines at the end of January. His participation in the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale is also confirmed.
This was made possible by a new policy announced last Thursday called the \”Returning Member Program,\” allowing select LIV players to rejoin the PGA Tour without suspension. Koepka’s recent sporting achievements, especially his 2023 PGA Championship win as his fifth major, were key factors.
The PGA Tour stated this special rule applies to major winners and Players Champions from the last three years, with a deadline of February 2. CEO Brian Rolapp emphasized it is a one-time