Brooks Koepka Eyes PGA Tour Return After LIV Golf Exit
Published by Bonnyton Golf Club in Club News · Monday 12 Jan 2026 · 2:15
Brooks Koepka Eyes PGA Tour Return After LIV Golf Exit
Five-time major champion Brooks Koepka could be set for a high-profile return to the PGA Tour after confirming he has reapplied for membership following his departure from LIV Golf.
Koepka, who left the PGA Tour in 2022 to join the Saudi-backed LIV series, stepped away from LIV shortly before Christmas, ending his contract a year early. The 35-year-old cited a desire to spend more time with his family as the key reason behind the decision.
A Familiar Face on the PGA Tour
Koepka is no stranger to success on the PGA Tour. His nine victories include two US Opens and three PGA Championships, cementing his reputation as one of the most dominant major performers of his generation. His last non-major PGA Tour appearance came at the Valspar Championship in March 2022.
Reports suggest Koepka must now go through a formal disciplinary and review process before any return is approved. Under current PGA Tour policy, players are required to sit out for one year following their final LIV Golf appearance, which for Koepka was in August 2025.
World Ranking Slide, Major Exemptions Remain
Since joining LIV Golf, Koepka has slipped to 244th in the Official World Golf Ranking, largely due to LIV events not carrying ranking points. However, his victory at the 2023 PGA Championship at Oak Hill ensures he remains exempt for all four majors through to 2028.
That means golf fans can still expect to see Koepka competing on the biggest stages, regardless of how quickly a PGA Tour return materialises.
What It Means for the Game
Many believe Koepka’s return would be a significant boost for the PGA Tour. His star power, proven pedigree, and reputation as a big-tournament player would add further strength to an already competitive field.
As Sky Sports reporter Jamie Weir noted, Koepka has always been motivated by balance rather than spotlight. With injuries behind him and priorities shifting, a return to familiar territory may suit both player and tour.
Looking Ahead
The 2026 PGA Tour season begins with the Sony Open in Hawaii, while the traditional curtain-raiser, The Sentry, has been cancelled this year due to water conservation issues in Maui.
Whether Koepka features early in the season or later remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: his potential return is already one of the most talked-about stories in golf.
We’ll be keeping a close eye on developments—and what they could mean for the future of the professional game.
