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DeChambeau, Rahm and Smith Commit to LIV as PGA Tour Opens One-Time Return Window

Brooks Koepka is currently the only eligible LIV player using the PGA Tour’s costly pathway back.

Overview

  • At LIV’s media day in Florida, Bryson DeChambeau, Jon Rahm and Cameron Smith said they are not applying for PGA Tour reinstatement and will stay with LIV for 2026.
  • The PGA Tour’s Returning Member Program applies only to players who won a major or The Players since 2022, with a Feb. 2 deadline to apply.
  • Koepka has rejoined the PGA Tour under the new program and is slated to start at the Farmers Insurance Open.
  • His return requires a $5 million charitable contribution and a five-year forfeiture of Player Equity Program participation, with estimates of $50–85 million in foregone value, plus limits on FedEx Cup bonus eligibility and signature-event access in 2026.
  • PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp described the reinstatement window as a one-time option with no promise it will be offered again, while DeChambeau noted he is under contract through 2026 and Rahm and Smith reiterated long-term commitments to LIV.