When Brooks Koepka made the switch to Saudi-backed LIV Golf in 2022, he became part of a high-profile exodus that included Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, and Bryson DeChambeau. Three years later, the five-time major winner has walked away from it. Now, questions linger about what’s next: is it the PGA Tour? It could be, as Koepka has not closed the door on a PGA Tour return.

Koepka hasn’t confirmed whether he’ll return to the PGA Tour, but he has emphasized that his long-term legacy in the game remains important to him. Reports indicate that he informed the PGA Tour of his resignation from LIV before the news became public. He would have to reapply for PGA Tour membership if he wanted to return, since his membership lapsed before the 2022–23 season. The Tour has a one-year ban against golfers who competed in unauthorized events without permission from the date of their last LIV event.

Brooks Koepka’s last LIV appearance was in Indianapolis from August 15-17, 2025. As per this and the ban rule, Koepka cannot reapply for membership before mid-August. The Tour hasn’t said which punishments or time frames will apply in Koepka’s case, so the issue is still unclear. However, the 5-time major winner might still play in the majors he is eligible for, despite not being a member anywhere.

LIV Golf, on the other hand, said that the split was mutual and that there was no sign of a contract issue. For now, Koepka’s future hinges less on punishment and more on how and when he decides to deal with golf’s fractured ecosystem.

What makes this narrative more interesting is the LIV CEO’s comment that came weeks before the 35-years-old decided to walk away.

Scott O’Neil recently said, “We haven’t made any announcements on players, but he is signed for 2026.” This sparked rumors that Koepka might not play next season because he doesn’t want to compete under his current contract, suggesting he has a strained relationship with the league. This lack of clarity supports the idea that the PGA Tour needs clear rules for bringing back former LIV stars when they want to come back.

Brian Rolapp, the CEO of the PGA Tour, doesn’t hold any grudges from golf’s civil war, but player-directors make the board’s decisions. People still have different opinions. One veteran said, “F— them. They made their choice.” “They made their choice. If they’re that important, how come no fans followed them to LIV?”

Looks like the Tour will prioritize players of significance with valid status first. The subtext here is clear: Brooks Koepka’s recent major wins are very important in any conversations about a return. And it won’t be a cakewalk!

Moreover, LIV Golf’s official response reveals both the league’s perspective and broader implications for professional golf’s future.

Top Stories

LIV Golf CEO Breaks Silence as Brooks Koepka Exits Before Contract Expiry

PGA Tour Drops Cryptic Brooks Koepka Statement as He Exits LIV Golf After 3 Years

Lee Trevino, 86, Leaves Golf World Hanging on Every Word at PNC: ‘I’ve Been Digging Worms’

Who Is Brooks Koepka’s Wife Jena Sims? Ethnicity, Children, Career & More About Golf WAG Revealed

Brooks Koepka Net Worth 2025: LIV Golf Contracts & Salaries Explored

LIV describes Koepka’s split as ‘amicable and mutual’ amid return speculation

Scott O’Neil addressed Brooks Koepka’s departure: “Brooks is prioritizing the needs of his family and staying closer to home. We appreciate the significant impact he has had on the game and wish him continued success.” The departure made Koepka the first big-name player to leave the league before his contract ended in 2026.

O’Neil stressed that LIV has a busy schedule worldwide. That includes games in Saudi Arabia, Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, Mexico, Spain, and England. The league needs golfers who are very dedicated to traveling internationally, working with the media, and mentoring up-and-coming stars. The tough schedule made it impossible for the player from Jupiter, Florida, to spend time with his family at home, so he decided to leave.

Brook Koepka won three times in three years with LIV and made about $44.71 million in prize money, in addition to the $100 million signing bonus he got. He won the PGA Championship at Oak Hill in 2023, making him the first LIV player to win a major event. He also played for Team USA at the Ryder Cup, becoming the first LIV player to do so.

Koepka’s departure means that Talor Gooch will be the captain of Smash GC in 2026. Gooch won three LIV events in 2023 and the individual championship for the whole season, which earned him a $18 million prize. He is able to lead the squad forward because of his past performance and leadership skills. This will ensure the team stays together even if they lose their previous captain.