Brooks Koepka might be making a comeback to the PGA Tour as it reopens doors for players who moved to LIV Golf, but it seems Bryson DeChambeau, Jon Rahm, and Cameron Smith aren’t looking to follow suit. In a recent event in West Palm Beach, DeChambeau and Rahm confirmed their commitment to LIV Golf for this season, with DeChambeau indicating no plans beyond 2026. Smith, on the other hand, intends to stay with the Saudi-backed league “for many years to come.”
This renewed interest in the future of these golfers comes after the PGA Tour offered a route back for certain players who were previously part of LIV Golf. The “Returning Member Program” allows golfers who secured a major championship or the Players Championship between 2022 and 2025 to return. Koepka, DeChambeau, Rahm, and Smith all qualify under this program.
Koepka’s potential return, however, has brought additional scrutiny to the other players eligible before the program closes on February 2nd. “My contract runs through 2026, so I’m looking forward to this year,” DeChambeau mentioned candidly. Rahm echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing his loyalty: “I’m not going anywhere. I wish Brooks the best of luck. As far as I’m concerned, I’m focused on the league and the team this year. Hopefully, we can repeat as champions again.” His comments consistently highlight his satisfaction with LIV Golf, even denying past rumors about his unhappiness with the choice. “Zero validity,” he said firmly.
Smith, too, reaffirmed his decision to join LIV, confirming, like the others, that he plans to stick around for quite some time. DeChambeau, a two-time U.S. Open champion, appeared a bit more open to the idea of leaving after this season. He’s currently in talks regarding a contract extension beyond 2027, expressing enthusiasm for the upcoming golf season.
In a recent interview, DeChambeau acknowledged uncertainty about the future. “I have no idea what will happen in a year’s time,” he stated, but he’s optimistic about reaching an agreement that benefits everyone involved.
Reflecting on the changing dynamics, DeChambeau shared a light moment recently, posting a photo on social media with an exit sign and a playful question for his followers. “What would you do?” he asked, contributing to a new viral trend. When questioned about the post, he explained, “There’s a new viral trend going on with exit signs, so I just wanted to show it off in a new way.”
Koepka made waves this week announcing his return to the PGA Tour, but it won’t be without consequences. He now faces significant penalties for switching to LIV Golf in 2022. Under the terms of the “Returning Member Program,” he has agreed to stringent conditions, including a five-year forfeiture of any potential equity in the PGA Tour’s Player Equity Program, along with a mandatory $5 million charitable donation.
