Brooks Koepka is set to make his PGA Tour return this week at the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines, his first event on the tour since 2022. The five-time major winner left LIV Golf just before Christmas, citing family reasons, and has spoken about the personal circumstances that prompted his decision.
Koepka revealed that his wife Jena Sims suffered a miscarriage in September, around the time of the Ryder Cup. “A lot’s gone on over the past five, six months with my family,” he said. “That played a big role in coming back.” He added that the couple’s son, Crew, will now be able to travel with him “all the time”.
Upon being released from his LIV contract, Koepka called Tiger Woods, vice-chairman of PGA Tour Enterprises, to expedite his return under the new Returning Member Program. “I’ve always had a good relationship with Tiger,” he said. “That was the first person that kind of came to mind.”
Koepka acknowledged the challenge ahead, particularly from world number one Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy. “Scottie’s been dominant… I’m excited to battle with them,” he said. He will forfeit $15m from the final year of his LIV contract and pay $5m to charity as part of his exit.
The 35-year-old admitted feeling “nervous” about fan reactions but said he does not regret his time on LIV. “I don’t regret anything I do. I’ve learned a lot.” After Torrey Pines, he plans to play in the Phoenix Open, Cognizant Classic, and The Players before Augusta.
