Tiger Woods has publicly welcomed the surprise return of Brooks Koepka to the PGA Tour, stating the five-time major winner's presence makes the tour "a better place to play" and represents a "win for everyone".
Koepka's High-Profile Comeback and Tour Rule Changes
The dramatic shift in the golfing landscape was confirmed last month when Koepka, 35, left the LIV Golf series with a year remaining on his contract. He cited a desire to spend more time with his family. His subsequent application for reinstated PGA Tour membership was so significant that it prompted officials to create a new Returning Member Programme, effectively rewriting their own rules to accommodate him.
As part of the agreement for his comeback, Koepka has accepted strict limits on financial benefits and will make a charitable donation of $5 million (£3.71 million). His return is set to begin at the upcoming Farmers Insurance Open.
Woods' Perspective from the PGA Tour Board
Woods, a 15-time major champion and member of the PGA Tour's policy board, addressed the situation after a TGL match in Florida on Tuesday evening. He acknowledged the divisive nature of the move but emphasised the overarching goal of strengthening the tour.
"There are opinions from both sides. We are not going to satisfy everyone," Woods said. "We know that, but the whole idea is to make our tour better than what it was. With Brooks’ addition to the (PGA) Tour, it does. It makes it a better place to play."
He elaborated on the financial upside for fellow tour members, noting that "players who have earned equity" will benefit from Koepka's participation through increased revenue. "The fact that they own the (PGA) Tour, if Brooks plays, it puts more money in their pocket. It is a win for everyone," Woods concluded.
DeChambeau Stays Put as Woods Recovers
While Koepka makes his high-stakes return, another high-profile LIV golfer, Bryson DeChambeau, has ruled out a swift follow-up. Speaking at a LIV Golf captains' press conference, DeChambeau confirmed his commitment, stating, "I’m contracted through 2026, so I’m excited about this year." He claimed to have had no prior knowledge of Koepka's decision or the penalties involved.
Meanwhile, Tiger Woods provided an update on his own condition, confirming he is in rehabilitation from a seventh back surgery performed in October. The 50-year-old legend revealed he is progressing to hitting short irons but admitted his current game speed is limited. "It is just one of those things where it just takes so much time for the bone to heal and the bone to set," he explained.
