Brooks Koepka Leaves LIV Golf, Returns to PGA Tour

Other LIV stars like Rahm, DeChambeau, and Smith commit to staying with the Saudi-backed league

Apr. 12, 2026 at 3:06pm

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting a golf tournament or match, with the players and their movements broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in shades of green, blue, and brown, conveying the evolving dynamics between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf.The shifting landscape of professional golf as top players navigate the rivalry between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf.Phoenix Today

In a surprising move, former LIV Golf player Brooks Koepka has announced his return to the PGA Tour, becoming the first high-profile player to make the switch back. However, other prominent LIV golfers like Bryson DeChambeau, Jon Rahm, and Cameron Smith have expressed their commitment to remaining with the Saudi-funded league, distancing themselves from any notion of returning to the PGA Tour.

Why it matters

Koepka's decision to leave LIV Golf and rejoin the PGA Tour marks a significant shift in the ongoing rivalry between the two golf organizations. This move raises questions about the future dynamics between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, as well as the potential for other players to follow Koepka's lead.

The details

Koepka's announcement to leave LIV came shortly after he shared his intentions on social media, expressing his gratitude towards his family and team for their support throughout his career. He acknowledged the exciting changes within the PGA Tour under new leadership, fresh investors, and an equity program designed to provide players with a genuine stake in the organization. Koepka recognized that his decision would involve financial penalties, which he is prepared to accept.

  • Koepka announced his return to the PGA Tour in April 2026.
  • Koepka plans to participate in upcoming tournaments, including the Farmers Insurance Open and the Waste Management Phoenix Open.

The players

Brooks Koepka

A professional golfer who has decided to leave LIV Golf and return to the PGA Tour.

Bryson DeChambeau

A professional golfer who has expressed his commitment to remain with LIV Golf, stating that he has a contract with the league and is excited about what they can accomplish this year.

Jon Rahm

A professional golfer who joined LIV Golf in December 2023, despite his previous vocal criticism of the league. He has stated that he has no intention of leaving LIV Golf and is focused on helping his team become champions again.

Cameron Smith

A professional golfer who captured the title at the 2022 Open Championship just before he officially signed with LIV. He has reiterated his dedication to the league, stating that he plans to be part of LIV for many years to come.

Brian Rolapp

The CEO of the PGA Tour, who indicated that Koepka's comeback has prompted the establishment of a Returning Member Program, aimed at accommodating players who previously left the tour and might consider following Koepka's lead.

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What they’re saying

“I was completely taken aback by Brooks's decision; I had no clue that would happen. I didn't know what the repercussions would be either. At this moment, I have a contract with LIV Golf, and I'm excited about what we can accomplish this year.”

— Bryson DeChambeau

“I've made the choice to spend more time at home, and I'm not willing to give that up. I plan to be part of LIV for many years to come.”

— Cameron Smith

“I have no intention of leaving. My thoughts are very much aligned with what Bryson said. I wish Brooks all the best, but my focus remains on LIV Golf and my team this year, and my goal is to help us become champions again.”

— Jon Rahm

“As a child, I always dreamed of competing on the PGA Tour, and I'm thrilled to announce my return today. Being closer to home and spending more quality time with my family adds immense significance to this opportunity.”

— Brooks Koepka

What’s next

The PGA Tour has established a Returning Member Program to accommodate players who previously left the tour and might consider following Koepka's lead. It remains to be seen if other prominent LIV Golf players will make the switch back to the PGA Tour in the future.

The takeaway

Koepka's decision to leave LIV Golf and rejoin the PGA Tour marks a significant shift in the ongoing rivalry between the two golf organizations. While Koepka is the first high-profile player to make the switch, other LIV stars like Rahm, DeChambeau, and Smith have expressed their commitment to staying with the Saudi-backed league, indicating that the landscape of professional golf is still evolving.