Summary
Golf legend Tom Watson criticized the PGA Tour for allowing Brooks Koepka to quickly return after leaving for the LIV Golf League in 2022. Watson suggested that returning players should spend a year on a lower-level tour before rejoining. Koepka is currently competing in his seventh tournament of the season at The Masters.
Key Facts
- The Masters golf tournament started with opening drives by Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, and Tom Watson.
- Tom Watson criticized the PGA Tour's decision to allow Brooks Koepka back easily after he left for LIV Golf.
- Brooks Koepka left for LIV Golf in June 2022 and rejoined the PGA Tour in 2026.
- Koepka faced financial penalties for leaving LIV Golf but was allowed to return under the "Returning Member Program."
- Watson suggested returning players should spend a year on the Korn Ferry Tour before rejoining the PGA Tour.
- Koepka has struggled in the 2026 season, making only four of six cuts and no top-10 finishes.
