Brooks Koepka returns to PGA Tour as 'one-time defined window' opens for LIV Golf big guns
Five-time major winner could be back playing on US circuit as early as next month
Brooks Koepka is set to make an early return to the PGA Tour after ending his stint at LIV Golf, with the opportunity being offered to fellow major winners Bryson DeChambeau, Jon Rahm and Cameron Smith as well.
On the back of five-time major champion Koepka announcing an “amicable” parting from the breakaway circuit, the PGA Tour has revealed that his application for membership has been granted.
The 2013 Scottish Challenge winner is expected to return in next month’s Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines in San Diego and can also play in the WM Phoenix Open. Unless he qualifies, though, he won’t be able to play in either the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am or Genesis Invitational due to both those being Signature Events on the US circuit.
In a statement issued by PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp, the pathway is being described as the “Returning Member Programme”, which is also available to DeChambeau, Rahm and Smith on the strength of them being the only other LIV Golf players to have won a major or a Players Championship since 2022.
‘One-time defined window’ says PGA Tour CEO
Only players who have won those tournaments and been away from the tour for at least two years are eligible, with the window for players applying for reinstatement for the 2026 season open until 2 February.
“This is a one-time, defined window and does not set a precedent for future situations,” insisted Rolapp. “Once the door closes, there is no promise that this path will be available again.”
Koepka will be ineligible for the circuit’s Player Equity Programme for five years and won’t be in the running for a FedEx Cup bonus payment this year. In addition, he has agreed to make a $5 million charitable contribution.
“Being closer to home and spending more time with my family makes this opportunity especially meaningful to me,” he said in a statement.
Financial penalties have been ‘accepted’
“I believe in where the PGA Tour is headed with new leadership, new investors, and an equity program that gives players a meaningful ownership stake. I also understand there are financial penalties associated with this decision, and I accept those.
“Finally, I want to thank the fans. Your support means more to me today than ever before, and I look forward to seeing you soon at the Farmers Insurance Open and WM Phoenix Open.”
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