Brooks Koepka‘s LIV Golf exit and subsequent reinstatement on the PGA Tour have stirred a debate that has now reached the Hero Dubai Desert Classic. PGA Tour pros like Michael Kim had highlighted that his reinstatement has created a divide, and it is now clear. Notably, US Open champion Wyndham Clark recently expressed that he felt “torn” about it. However, Tommy Fleetwood and Shane Lowry have contrasting views as they have shown support for the 5x major champion’s decision.

“I think it’s good for him [Brooks Koepka] that he wanted to get off LIV, and he got back really quickly. I think it’s good for the PGA TOUR, as in, Brooks is going to play a lot of the smaller events. So that’s going to add to those,” Shane Lowry said during the practice rounds of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic 2026.

“Personally, I’m playing where I feel like I can still chase my dreams, and I’m in the best place to be the best golfer I can be. Other people may feel differently,” Tommy Fleetwood said, echoing similar feelings. “I think that’s what Brooks is doing. He wants to play where he feels like he can get the most out of himself and play his best golf, and that’s obviously where he’s made his decisions is there and he’s ended up coming back,” he added.

Wyndham Clark opposed the fact that Brooks Koepka was allowed to play on the PGA Tour immediately after his LIV exit. Speaking to SiriusXM PGA Tour Radio, Clark pointed out that while he is happy for the ex-LIV golfer, he is also frustrated because Koepka “got the cake and ate it too”.

Touching on the same topic, Robert MacIntyre had revealed that there’s a divide in the PGA Tour. Some are happy with Koepka’s return, some are unsure, and some feel that he shouldn’t be back. The 2x PGA Tour winner mentioned that many feel that they have been wronged as they had given up astronomical figures and stayed loyal to the American tour. However, Brooks Koepka chose the other path and yet, was able to return without too many consequences.

Still, both Lowry and Fleetwood have rallied back behind the 5x major champion. The Irish golfer even said that it would benefit the PGA Tour, sharing similar views to those of Rory McIlroy. McIlroy previously said that Koepka’s addition will bring in more fans and even strengthen the field. This means the organization could see more viewership and engagement, while the members can have more OWGR points. Therefore, many professional golfers on the PGA Tour believe that it’s a win-win for both.

However, Koepka is facing some restrictions and punishments. He committed to paying $5 million to a charity and forfeited all 2026 FedEx Cup bonus money eligibility. Koepka will also not get any equity in the PGA Tour till 2030. Moreover, he cannot play all the events, and cannot participate in signature events through sponsor exemptions. But since he agreed to all these terms, he will soon make a comeback on the PGA Tour.

Top Stories

Greg Norman Puts Rory McIlroy, Tiger Woods on Blast for Never Confronting Him Directly

Dustin Johnson Sends Subtle Warning to Scottie Scheffler and Co. After Re-Signing With LIV Golf

Patrick Reed Makes Feelings Clear on Quitting LIV Golf for the ‘Best’ PGA Tour

Nelly Korda Becomes a No Show as Tiger Woods’ WTGL Signs Charley Hull, Lexi Thompson & More

Augusta National’s Strict Actions Against Resellers Forces Ticketing Platform to Release Statement

Brooks Koepka will start at the 2026 Farmers Insurance Open

Brooks Koepka’s PGA Tour access stems from his multi-year winner’s exemption through 2028. His 2023 PGA Championship victory covers all full-field events, The Players Championship, and additional tournaments. Under the Returning Member Program, he must play at least 15 co-sponsored/approved events in 2026. Notabvly, the fields will expand if needed to accommodate him without displacing others.

Based on that, the 9x PGA Tour winner has confirmed entry at the 2026 Farmers Insurance Open. The event is scheduled to be held from January 29 to February 1, 2026, at the Torrey Pines Golf Course in San Diego. Hideki Matsuyama, Justin Rose, Adam Scott, Michael Kim, and others will join him there. After the Farmers Insurance Open, Brooks Koepka has committed to the 2026 WM Phoenix Open at the TPC Scottsdale.

As Brooks Koepka prepares to tee it up at Torrey Pines, the debate around his return continues to shape conversations across the Tour. For now, support from players like Shane Lowry and Tommy Fleetwood suggests a focus on competition rather than division.