The PGA Tour has made headlines this week with the announcement of its Returning Member Program, allowing select former members to rejoin the Tour. The big news came when it was revealed that Brooks Koepka, a four-time major champion, has accepted the offer and will return to competition this month. This development raises questions about whether other players from LIV Golf will follow suit.
Under the new program, former members who have won a major championship or the Players Championship since 2022 can rejoin the PGA Tour, albeit with certain penalties and conditions. This criteria narrows the pool to just four players from LIV Golf: Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau, Cameron Smith, and Koepka. While Koepka’s decision is clear, the fate of the others remains uncertain, as they have until February 2, 2026, to make their choice.
During recent press conferences, Rahm, DeChambeau, and Smith expressed their initial reluctance to return to the PGA Tour. Yet, their responses hinted at a possible reconsideration. The topic became a significant discussion point on the latest episode of GOLF’s Subpar podcast, where hosts Colt Knost and Drew Stoltz examined the implications of Koepka’s return.
Knost expressed optimism, stating, “I think at least one” of the remaining players will ultimately decide to rejoin the PGA Tour. He noted that while Rahm remains focused on LIV Golf, the prospect of Koepka’s return may cause him to rethink his position. Stoltz echoed this sentiment, commenting, “The PGA Tour is basically forcing their hand—if you want back, do it right now.”
The implications of Koepka’s return extend beyond individual decisions. Stoltz remarked that losing a marquee player like Koepka is a significant blow to LIV Golf. The distraction for the remaining players, who will inevitably face questions about Koepka’s decision and their own potential return, could impact the league’s dynamics. Knost added, “I think it just absolutely destroys them,” reinforcing the notion that LIV Golf may need to respond strategically.
Despite the challenges faced by LIV Golf, the organization has substantial financial backing from the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia. Knost speculated that LIV may counter the PGA Tour’s move with increased financial incentives for its players, suggesting, “They could say, you know what, you are going to do this to us? Fine, we are opening up our checkbook.”
As the PGA Tour season progresses, the effects of these developments will continue to unfold. Players, fans, and industry observers alike are keenly watching to see if any of the remaining LIV Golf stars will take the opportunity to return to the PGA Tour.
For more insights into the PGA Tour’s Returning Member Program and to catch the full discussion on the Subpar podcast featuring guest Kip Henley, visit their YouTube channel or listen to the episode online.
