Saudi-backed LIV Golf is facing a potentially pivotal moment after Brooks Koepka emerged as the first major name to move back to the PGA Tour since the launch of LIV in 2022.
Koepka has accepted newly announced PGA Tour terms that have opened the door for a limited pathway for certain LIV players to return to the PGA — marking a significant shift in policy from the Tour, which had previously barred defectors indefinitely.
Koepka’s decision is particularly significant given the timing. LIV Golf is preparing for its 2026 season, which is scheduled to begin in Riyadh next month, and has faced challenges in recruiting new marquee names in recent months. It is believed Koepka had one year remaining on his Public Investment Fund-backed LIV contract.
PGA Tour rule change signals strategic shift
In confirming Koepka’s return, the PGA Tour announced a change to its eligibility rules, allowing a narrow group of LIV players to re-enter the Tour under strict conditions. The pathway is limited to golfers who have won a men’s major championship since 2022, meaning that only four players qualify: Koepka, fan-favourite Bryson DeChambeau, European Ryder Cup hero Jon Rahm, and Australia's Cameron Smith.
Under the revised framework, returning players must accept significant financial penalties, including reduced bonus eligibility and forfeiture of potential equity participation within the Tour. Koepka agreed to those terms.
Each of the above players are believed to remain under contract with LIV Golf, though all are understood to be entering the final year of their respective deals.
Deadline adds pressure on LIV’s biggest names
The PGA Tour has set a February 2 deadline for those eligible players to apply for reinstatement, stating that the opportunity may not be offered again. The language of the announcement underlines the Tour’s intent to retain control of the process while limiting any further disruption to its competitive structure.
From a LIV and Saudi perspective, the implications could be significant. Koepka, Rahm, DeChambeau and Smith represent the core of LIV’s global star power — particularly important as the league continues to position itself within the Kingdom’s broader sports and tourism strategy.
Should additional players follow Koepka’s lead, LIV would face renewed questions around its long-term competitive model, fan engagement and ability to retain elite talent in direct competition with the PGA Tour.
For now, LIV Golf maintains its full schedule and commitment to its upcoming Riyadh opener - having recently announced much-welcomed new international television broadcast deals.
But the next few weeks may prove decisive in shaping the balance of power in men’s professional golf — and the future role of Saudi-backed investment in the sport.
