The PGA Tour is allowing major winners back from LIV Golf, starting with Brooks Koepka's return at the Farmers Insurance Open. He accepted significant financial penalties, including a $5m charitable donation and forfeiting FedExCup bonuses. This move follows his departure to the Saudi-backed series in 2022 and recent application for reinstatement.

A new returning member program, valid only for 2026, offers a pathway for Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau, and Cam Smith. They must commit to 15 tournaments and face similar equity losses. PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp called it a one-time window, closing February 2nd, aimed at capitalizing on LIV departures.

LIV Golf responded by championing an open ecosystem, but losing marquee players threatens its viability. Rahm and Smith's form has dipped since joining, making the deeper PGA Tour competition tempting. Unraveling LIV team contracts remains a costly, litigious hurdle for any player considering the switch.