Koepka makes PGA return, set for first event later this month

Brooks Koepka prepares for his PGA Tour comeback at the Farmers Insurance Open from January 29 to February 1 at Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla, California.

The five-time major winner enters through the new Returning Member Program after departing LIV Golf three weeks ago. He has also declared interest in the WM Phoenix Open the following week at TPC Scottsdale.

Koepka last competed in a full-field PGA Tour event at the 2022 Valspar Championship, where he tied for 12th. His record at the PGA Tour includes nine victories, with his final win coming at the 2021 WM Phoenix Open.

He captured three PGA Championships, along with U.S. Open titles in 2017 and 2018, making him one of the most dominant men on the tour before his exit.

The 35-year-old American joined LIV Golf in June 2022 on a reported $100 million contract. During his time there, he claimed five titles, including a playoff victory over Jon Rahm at the 2024 Greenbrier event. 

Koepka won the 2023 PGA Championship at Oak Hill, his fifth major overall and the first by a LIV player.

LIV announced Koepka’s exit ahead of the 2026 season, citing his focus on family and time at home. PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp detailed the reinstatement in a memo to members, noting Koepka’s eligibility stems from his 2023 PGA win. 

The program requires 15 events in 2026 and opens to three other LIV players by February 2.

Players gain automatic field spots in full-field events, including playoffs, by displacing lower-ranked qualifiers. Koepka’s exemption runs through 2028 from the 2023 major.

The American’s return was only made possible after accepting some steep conditions. He forfeits FedEx Cup bonuses this year, faces five years without equity grants, and agrees to a $5 million charity donation selected jointly with the tour. 

In the speech marking his return. Koepka noted, “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.”