Brooks Koepka Getting His Shot

Under this program created for eligible returners, comes a strict threshold you must meet. Many will fall to the required elements, but just a small handful will have the opportunity to decide by Feb. 2,2026. According to the guidelines set forth by Rolapp, only players who have been away from the TOUR for at least two years and have won THE PLAYERS Championship. Or including the Masters Tournament, PGA Championship, U.S. Open or The Open Championship during the 2022-2025 seasons are eligible for a return. 

A big reason for this move outside of just re-opening the doors for those who paved the way, was the push from fans. Keeping the viewership and fans happy became a clear vocal point under the leadership of Rolapp. 

“We will continue to aggressively pursue anything that enhances the fan experience and makes the PGA TOUR stronger,” Rolapp said in a letter to fans. “This is part of our commitment to fans, who expect the world’s best players to compete on the PGA TOUR week in and week out.”

Welcome Home 

Koepka will get his chance to once again leave his mark within the Tour, but not without having to pay a hefty price for his first exit. It has been determined that all returning players will not receive payment from the FedExCup Bonus Program for the 2026 season. While also now becoming ineligible to earn equity from the Player Equity Program for the next five years until 2030. In a sense of making things complete and fair, Koepka has agreed to make a $5 million contribution to a charity. 

With all the little nuances of a possible return now being put to rest, the peers of Koepka are eager for his return as well. Realizing the increase in competition that will come with his addition. 

“We all want to play against the best players, and Brooks Koepka is certainly one of them”, Ludvig Åberg said. 

The nine-time Tour winner will see his first action at The Farmers Insurance Open, with many expected eyes to be following him. While Koepka has pulled the trigger and made his return, those like Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau still have a decision to make by Feb. 2nd.