On January 13th, 2026, we break down the historic reinstatement of Brooks Koepka to the PGA Tour, the massive financial penalties involved, and Anthony Kim’s shocking health revelation.

THE RETURNING MEMBER PROGRAM

• Brooks Koepka becomes the first LIV defector to officially return, accepting a brutal penalty package to tee it up at Torrey Pines and TPC Scottsdale.
• The cost of doing business: A $5M charitable fine and a 5-year ban from the Player Equity Program estimated to cost him between $50-$85 million.
• The "Ultimatum" clock is ticking for Rahm, Bryson, and Cam Smith, while Phil, DJ, and Reed are officially locked out by the "Tiger Woods 4D Chess" eligibility clause.

THE RESURRECTION OF AK

• While Richard T. Lee won the LIV Promotions event, the golf world is reeling from Anthony Kim qualifying and revealing a near-death experience from three years ago.
• Doctors gave him "two weeks to live," but now he’s back with a tour card and a message for his haters: "SUCK IT."
• A look at the raw emotion of Kim's return versus the disappointment for Chase Koepka.

TROUBLE IN PARADISE

• The Sentry is officially cancelled as the legal war over Kapalua’s water infrastructure ends in a Hawaii Supreme Court ruling favoring cultural practices over irrigation.
• Farmers Insurance confirms they are ending their 17-year sponsorship after 2026, adding to the Tour's headache.
• How a local dispute between TY Management and Maui Land and Pineapple toppled a Signature Event.

Quick Hits

Vijay Singh tees it up at 62 • Matt Kuchar blasts shrinking fields • Brandel Chamblee vs. "He Earned It"

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We break down the emotional scenes at LIV Promotions, Anthony Kim’s stunning admission, and the rumors sending Thomas Detry to the 4Aces.

LIV GOLF PROMOTIONS

• Richard T. Lee secures his spot at 11-under, but the spotlight belongs to Anthony Kim at Black Diamond Ranch following his emotional return to competitive golf.
• AK revealed that just three years ago, doctors told him he had "two weeks to live."
• He executed a miraculous falling-backward bunker shot on the 14th, joking, "if you are practicing that shot you need to quit."

THE RUMOR MILL

• Reports swirl that Thomas Detry is leaving the PGA Tour for DJ’s 4Aces, sparking wild theories about a "Special Exemption" loophole that could reinstate Brooks Koepka.
• Smylie Kaufman warns of potential lawsuits from suspended players like Hudson Swafford if the rules are bent for stars.
• Fans are revolting against Michael Block signing with Malbon Golf, threatening brand boycotts.

Quick Hits

PGA Tour leaving Hawaii by 2027? • WTGL Sim League launches • 62-year-old Vijay Singh at Sony Open

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We break down the procedural hurdles facing Brooks Koepka’s return to the PGA Tour, Rory McIlroy’s stunning change of heart on player penalties, and the emotional scenes at the LIV Golf Promotions event.

THE REINSTATEMENT BATTLE

Brooks Koepka’s return rests in the hands of the Tiger Woods-led Future Competition Committee, though a reported *Athletic* loophole regarding his "non-suspension" status could bypass the standard one-year wait. Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy argues on *Stick to Football* that reputational damage is penalty enough.

• Quote of the Day: Brandel Chamblee counters the amnesty narrative: "Forgiveness without cost is not reconciliation, it is erasure."
• Social Watch: Pat Perez has already updated his Instagram bio to read "Reinstated to PGA Tour" before any official announcement.

AK’S EMOTION & HOVLAND’S CRISIS

While Richard T Lee leads the LIV Golf Promotions event at Black Diamond Ranch, the spotlight belongs to Anthony Kim, who pulled off a miraculous par save after finding the water in a gritty Round 3 performance.

• Candid Admission: Viktor Hovland admits he is currently "terrible at chipping" following a roadside existential crisis in Mississippi.
• The Human Element: Kim’s emotional reaction on the course was fueled by the presence of his wife Emily and daughter Bella watching from the gallery.

Quick Hits

Farmers swaps Torrey Pines for TGL • Vijay Singh uses Career Money Exemption • Charley Hull takes on Jason Day

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On January 10th, 2026, we break down the fallout from Brooks Koepka’s official PGA Tour reinstatement application, Jon Rahm’s standoff over fines, and Anthony Kim’s dramatic survival at Black Diamond Ranch.

THE REINSTATEMENT SAGA

• Brooks Koepka officially filed for PGA Tour reinstatement on Jan 9, triggering a complex disciplinary review by player directors rather than a simple rubber-stamp approval.
• While Rahm predicts a limited schedule, Bryson DeChambeau takes a hardline stance, arguing the Tour "should do it by the book and not give any special exemption."
• The move is heavily influenced by family following his wife Jena’s miscarriage, with management confirming that "Family has always guided Brooks' decisions."

RAHM’S REVOLT & AK’S SURVIVAL

• Jon Rahm appeared on *Subpar* refusing to pay $3M in DP World Tour fines and defending Pat Perez’s "ridiculous" suspension that is delaying his Champions Tour debut.
• Anthony Kim survived a thriller at the LIV Golf Promotions event, using a miracle chip-in on the 13th and a clutch birdie on the 18th to advance.
• AK described the round as a mirror of his "roller coaster" life perspective, while Richard T. Lee holds the lead at Black Diamond Ranch.

BUSINESS, TAKES & TIGER’S 50TH

• Farmers Insurance will end its sponsorship of Torrey Pines after 2026, while Brandel Chamblee questions Vijay Singh taking a spot at age 62 over younger talent.
• Michael Kim shuts down rumors of Bryson retiring to YouTube, confirming the Crusher is staying on the course.
• Tiger Woods celebrated his 50th at The Breakers with Jon Bon Jovi and a "greatest hits" menu of burgers and sushi.

Quick Hits

Rolapp’s field size plans • Pat Perez’s broadcasting ban • Farmers exits Torrey Pines

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We break down the fallout of Brooks Koepka officially leaving LIV Golf, the heated debate over his potential return, and the controversy surrounding Vijay Singh’s exemption at the Sony Open.

THE KOEPKA FALLOUT

• Brooks Koepka is officially leaving LIV Golf, sparking a massive philosophical divide. Rory McIlroy argues for an immediate return to boost the product, while Brandel Chamblee is furious, claiming a penalty-free comeback destroys the Tour's "meritocratic foundations."
• Quote: Rory McIlroy on Brooks returning: "Does it make sense... Absolutely."
• The Angle: Jon Rahm predicts a "light schedule" for the returning star, suggesting we won't see Brooks grinding every week.

SONY OPEN DRAMA & HAWAII BLUES

• Controversy erupts at the Sony Open as 63-year-old Vijay Singh utilizes a Career Money List exemption, drawing ire for taking a spot from younger talent. Looming over the event is the report that the PGA Tour may leave Hawaii entirely by 2027 due to SSG financial pressure.
• Quote: Lou Stagner calls Singh’s entry "RIDICULOUS."
• The Angle: Matt Kuchar declined his own exemption to "respect the ecosystem," highlighting the contrast in veteran approaches.

Quick Hits

Richard T. Lee leads LIV Promotions by 2 • Suteepat Prateeptienchai prepped at Disney World • Max Kennedy risks PGA Tour ban • Tiger’s 50th menu: Fajitas, Sushi & Milkshakes • TGL viewership plummets 65%

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We break down the LPGA’s corporate shift to Memorial Park, take you inside Tiger Woods’ lavish 50th birthday gala, and analyze the fallout from the PGA Tour’s ban on LIV qualifier participants.

THE END OF POPPIE’S POND

• The Chevron Championship is officially heading to Memorial Park, aligning the LPGA and PGA Tour under one Houston infrastructure. It’s a massive corporate play that signals the definitive end of the desert leap tradition.
• The Quote: Executives Craig Kessler and Laura Lane highlight the "dual-tour synergy" driving the relocation.
• The Last Splash: Mao Saigo goes down in history as the final champion to ever take the plunge.

TIGER HITS THE BIG 5-0

• We got the exclusive scoop on Tiger’s "RED Celebrating Legacy" bash at The Breakers. It wasn't just a party; it was a bridge between history and finance, with Arthur Blank supporting the TGR Foundation’s massive campaign.
• The Scene: A Masters-inspired menu paired with a private performance by Jon Bon Jovi.
• Money Moves: Cyndi Court details the push toward the foundation's $50M fundraising goal.

HIGH STAKES AT BLACK DIAMOND

• The LIV Golf Promotions qualifier turned chaotic as the PGA Tour enforced a one-year ban for participants, forcing last-minute withdrawals. Meanwhile, Anthony Kim continues his fascinating identity shift while trying to reclaim his game.
• Comeback Trail: Chase Koepka returns to competition following severe nerve damage and surgery.
• The Ban: The "unauthorized tournament" designation remains the ultimate leverage tool.

Quick Hits

Atlanta Drive GC takes the TGL crown • Cantlay’s "expected value" strategy pays off • Scheffler eyes the Grand Slam at Shinnecock • Spieth’s wrist surgery puts U.S. Open status in doubt

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We break down the official launch of the WTGL, Rory McIlroy’s call for peace, and the political battle threatening DC’s public courses on this Wednesday, January 7th, 2026.

THE WTGL ARRIVES

• TMRW Sports officially unveils the WTGL, a tech-infused league launching Winter 2026-27 at the SoFi Center, aiming to replicate the TGL model for the women's game with Lexi Thompson leading the charge.
• CEO Mike McCarley and Commissioner Craig Kessler emphasize "modernization" and "star-building" as the core pillars of the new venture.
• The league aims to capture a primetime audience, finally giving LPGA stars the high-tech stage previously reserved for the men.

LIV MOVES & RORY’S PIVOT

• The transfer market heats up as Thomas Detry signs with the 4Aces and Elvis Smylie joins the league, while young stars Akshay Bhatia and Si Woo Kim reportedly reject offers to stay on the PGA Tour.
• Rory McIlroy tells the "Stick to Football" podcast that defectors like Bryson and Brooks should return without fines, arguing that "reputational damage" was punishment enough.
• Michael Kim sparks a debate on social media regarding the value of legacy versus immediate cash payouts.

DC CRISIS & TIGER AT 50

• A crisis hits the capital as the Trump Administration terminates the National Links Trust lease, putting historic courses like East Potomac and the jobs of their employees at immediate risk.
• Tiger Woods hits the half-century mark, sparking speculation about a potential Champions Tour debut and his inevitable shift toward a Ryder Cup Captaincy role.
• Reports from Joe Pompliano and Garrett Johnson highlight the immediate fallout for the local DC golf community.

Quick Hits

Anthony Kim & Chase Koepka at LIV Promotions • Paige Spiranac opens up on anxiety • Bob Mac commits to The AmEx • Lush conditions at the cancelled Sentry

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We break down the fallout of Brooks Koepka’s LIV departure, Bryson DeChambeau’s contract posturing, and the Woods family’s eventful week at the Junior Orange Bowl.

LIV GOLF FALLOUT

• Bryson DeChambeau admits he was "shocked" by Brooks Koepka’s exit and hints at using the power vacuum for his own contract leverage. Meanwhile, the desperate scramble for three spots begins at the LIV Promotions event at Black Diamond Ranch.
• Miguel Tabuena risks a functional two-year PGA Tour ban to play, stating his goal is simply to "provide for Sandra and Paloma."
• Anthony Kim and Chase Koepka headline a field of players fighting for their professional lives in Florida.

TIGER & CHARLIE

• Charlie Woods finishes T-22 at the Junior Orange Bowl, but the headline is a scary "freak sequence" where a ball ricocheted off a root near his face under the watchful eyes of Tiger and Elin Nordegren.
• Projections show Tiger could be mathematically unranked with zero OWGR points by the time the 2026 Open Championship arrives.
• Social media roasts Tiger’s off-center Sun Day Red belt while he praises Charlie’s recovery with a "Hell of a shot."

DC GOLF WARS & CLASS ACTS

• Backlash grows over the Trump Administration terminating the National Links Trust lease in DC, with critics fearing the end of affordable public golf at East Potomac.
• Matt Ginella calls the move "indefensible," comparing Doral’s $595 fees to the accessible $40 rates currently in DC.
• Tommy Gainey shows pure class by withdrawing from the Bahamas Great Exuma Classic to give a younger pro a shot because it’s "ten times harder" now.

Quick Hits

West Essex Clubhouse fire • Sony Open & Dubai Invitational preview • Tiger's belt fashion police

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We break down Rory McIlroy’s pivot to open recruitment following Brooks Koepka’s LIV exit and recap a wild night in the TGL dome on January 4th, 2026.

FROM COLD WAR TO HEADHUNTING

• The professional golf narrative has officially shifted from a "Cold War" to open recruitment, as Rory McIlroy publicly courts Brooks Koepka for TGL immediately following Koepka's contract termination.
• "I would love him to play." — Rory McIlroy, stating his belief that the reputational damage suffered by LIV defectors is sufficient punishment without further bans.
• The exodus is getting real: Bryson DeChambeau admits "shock" at the move, while Kevin Na’s social media activity threatens the Korea event and Pat Perez teases a jump to the Champions Tour.

BOSTON COMMON STRIKES BACK

• Rory’s Boston Common Golf finally secures a win in TGL Season Two, taking down Los Angeles Golf Club 7-5 behind a breakout performance from the new blood.
• Rookie Michael Thorbjornsen was the MVP, draining four putts from over ten feet, including the game-winning eagle against Sahith Theegala.
• Thorbjornsen provided the most human moment of the night, recovering from a "relatable" bunker flub to play the hero down the stretch.

THE DC GOLF SHAKEUP

• The Trump Administration is reshaping capital golf, partnering with Jack Nicklaus to renovate Courses at Andrews while simultaneously terminating the National Links Trust lease for affordable tracks like Rock Creek and Langston.
• "We need an on ramp for golfers." — Damian Cosby on the danger of losing accessible municipal courses in the district.
• A stark contrast in philosophy: High-profile military course renovations vs. the potential loss of historic, affordable public links.

Quick Hits

Tragedy in Switzerland: Remembering junior golfer Emanuele Galeppini • Charlie Woods pulls off a recovery shot at the Junior Orange Bowl with Tiger watching • Tommy Gainey’s classy WD for the next generation • Justin Rose chasing ball speed and Masters revenge

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We break down Rory McIlroy’s call for a penalty-free return for LIV stars, the Trump Administration’s controversial move on D.C. municipal courses, and the virtual action kicking off TGL Season Two.

RORY’S PIVOT & THE OVERLAP

• Rory McIlroy explicitly advocated for Bryson DeChambeau and other LIV stars to return to the PGA Tour without financial penalties, arguing on *The Overlap* that the damage to their public image is punishment enough.
• Quote: Rory claims defectors have already "paid their consequence in terms of the reputation."
• The Angle: This softening stance coincides with Kai Trump posting a photo of Rory practicing at Trump National Jupiter, signaling a collision of political and professional golf worlds.

D.C. MUNI WARS

• The Trump Administration has terminated the National Links Trust’s lease for historic courses like East Potomac and Rock Creek, aiming to renovate them "really beautifully" despite fears of pricing out locals.
• Quote: Executive Director Damian Cosby argues golf shouldn't just be for people who "make six figures."
• The Angle: A classic battle between gentrification and accessibility threatens the soul of the capital's most gritty and beloved tracks.

TGL SEASON TWO & SCHEFFLER’S REIGN

• TGL returns to the SoFi Center as Boston Common Golf integrates rookie Michael Thorbjornsen on Gil Hanse-designed virtual holes like "Storrowed," while in the real world, Scottie Scheffler remains untouchable.
• Stat: Scheffler has built a "mathematical fortress" at World No. 1, sitting seven full points clear of McIlroy.
• Fun Fact: We contrast Tiger’s intense prime workouts with John Daly’s "four or five cigarettes" and Diet Coke routine.

Quick Hits

Daly says Tiger’s left shoulder causes his chipping yips • Kai Trump’s viral range session • Scheffler hits 137 weeks at No. 1

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On this Thursday, January 2nd, we analyze the psychological drivers behind Koepka’s LIV departure, revisit Tiger’s insane prime fitness routine, and discuss Shane Lowry’s raw admission about body image.

THE BROOKS & BRYSON DYNAMIC

• Smylie Kaufman theorizes that Koepka left LIV because he craves the "friction" of elite competition, contrasting him with Bryson DeChambeau, who flourishes as the "center of gravity" in an entertainment-first format.
• Quote: Brooks requires "friction" to thrive; Bryson needs to be the show.
• The Human Angle: Jena Sims’ emotional Instagram post highlights their family’s need for stability and peace after a tragic year.

TIGER TURNS 50

• We celebrate the Big 5-0 by looking back at Tiger’s prime daily torture: running eight miles, lifting heavy, and playing other sports—a stark contrast to his current modest goal of simply playing again.
• The Regimen: 4-mile run (morning) + Lift + Tennis/Basketball + 4-mile run (evening).
• Fun Fact: Even at 50, he’s still plugged in, sending fresh Sun Day Red gear to LSU coach Lane Kiffin.

TOUR STRUGGLES & STATS

• Shane Lowry gets raw in the *Irish Times* about dropping 14kg and fighting body insecurity, while we analyze Nelly Korda’s winless-but-consistent 2025 and the industry calls for "Caitlin Clark" levels of marketing.
• The Stat: Lowry is down from 114kg to 100kg; Korda made 19 of 19 cuts in 2025.
• The Defense: Jason Day defends Korda’s game on *The Lads*, citing a lack of visibility rather than skill.

Quick Hits

Trump Admin terminates National Links Trust lease in D.C. • Michael Thorbjornsen debuts for Boston Common Golf • Rory McIlroy’s alternate life in sports science

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We kick off 2026 breaking down Brooks Koepka’s shock return to the PGA Tour and celebrating Tiger Woods’ milestone 50th birthday.

THE RETURN OF BROOKS

• Brooks Koepka shocks the golf world by terminating his LIV contract to return to the PGA Tour, forfeiting $100 million and handing the Smash GC captaincy to Talor Gooch.
• The reaction is split: Brandel Chamblee demands consequences for the "marquee legitimizer," while Billy Horschel takes a pragmatic stance fueled by his new equity stake.
• Meanwhile, Bryson DeChambeau watches from the sidelines, using Koepka’s exit as leverage for his own expiring deal.

TIGER HITS THE BIG 5-0

• Tiger Woods turns 50 with tributes pouring in from Magic Johnson and Steph Curry ("coming for your wallet"), plus a cheeky "old fart" jab from Min Woo Lee.
• Things get weird with a psychic predicting a future LIV move for the Big Cat and Rachel Uchitel’s awkwardly timed wedding at The Breakers.
• "I didn't kill someone." — Uchitel addresses the media on her big day.

FAREWELL TO A LEGEND

• We pay our respects to Masashi "Jumbo" Ozaki, the baseball-pro-turned-golfer who racked up a staggering 113 professional wins.
• Recalling the 1990 Masters where Jack Nicklaus scrambled to get his hands on Ozaki’s "Professional Weapon" driver.

Quick Hits

Pros roast LeBron’s swing • The Sentry cancelled (Maui water issues) • LIV pivots to 72 holes • Nelly Korda’s winless streak hits 21

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We close out the year breaking down Scottie Scheffler’s ruthless money match at Cypress Point and the brutal tax realities explaining the LIV Golf exodus.

KILLER INSTINCT

• Fresh off the "ravioli incident," Scottie Scheffler showed no mercy at Cypress Point, going six-under through six holes while giving caddie Ted Scott ten shots. The verbal beating was so severe Scott paid $100 on the 7th tee just to make it stop.
• Quote: Scheffler loudly counting down the remaining strokes: "Nine... Eight..."
• The Angle: Proving the hand injury is fine and the killer instinct is fully intact.

THE COLD HARD MATH

• Kevin Kisner exposes the financial mechanics of the PGA Tour, revealing that after caddie fees (8-10%), coaching costs (4%), and double taxation across states, players only pocket about 30% of their gross earnings compared to LIV's net contracts.
• The Stat: A $1M check often turns into $300k in the bank.
• The Reality: Why the "exodus" is strictly a business decision.

TIGER & THE SENIORS

• Steve Flesch warns that the Champions Tour is physically unprepared for Tiger Woods, lacking the ropes, security, and concessions infrastructure to handle the crowds if the icon decides to commit to an event at the last minute.
• The Theory: Dr. Daniel Siegel’s "Window of Tolerance" regarding Tiger's anxiety.

Quick Hits

R&A ends 40-year bunker raker tradition • Jon Rahm calls JJ Watt the "worst" celeb golfer • Texas Tech football relies on oil staying over $60/barrel

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On Tuesday, December 30th, 2025, we break down Tiger’s injury-riddled milestone, DeChambeau’s contract leverage, and the cancellation of The Sentry.

TIGER AT 50

• Tiger is officially Champions Tour eligible today, but the celebration is bittersweet. After missing the entire 2025 season with a ruptured Achilles and back surgery No. 7, the "Senior Tour" debut is on indefinite hold.
• "I’m ready for twenty-five events," Woods joked sarcastically regarding his future schedule.
• Matt Kuchar notes the reality: Tiger’s goal has shifted from dominance to simple participation.

BRYSON’S LEVERAGE PLAY

• With Brooks Koepka leaving LIV, Bryson DeChambeau is flexing his leverage. He claims he doesn't need the league—or pro golf—to survive financially, putting pressure on contract negotiations.
• "I could just do YouTube golf and be totally fine," Bryson said, citing his 2.5 million subscribers.
• The threat highlights the shifting power dynamic between traditional play and digital content.

TOUR CONFESSIONS & CLASHES

• Scottie Scheffler goes existential, admitting that winning doesn't fulfill "the deepest places of your heart," even as TGL trademarks "Texas Golf Club" just to accommodate his travel preferences.
• Xander Schauffele pushes back against Rory McIlroy, noting a "class divide" regarding penalties for returning LIV players.
• The locker room remains split between the protected elites and those fighting for their cards.

Quick Hits

The Sentry cancelled (Maui drought) • Yuvraj Sandhu earns DP World Tour card • Billy Horschel’s 37ft eagle wins it for Atlanta (TGL)

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On December 28th, 2025, we debate the steep penalties required for Brooks Koepka’s PGA Tour return, analyze LIV’s aggressive strategy regarding player fines, and celebrate Tiger Woods’ milestone birthday.

THE KOEPKA DEBATE

• The fallout from Brooks Koepka’s departure from LIV intensifies as Brandel Chamblee demands re-qualification to avoid a "corrosive precedent," while Bryson DeChambeau argues that granting special exemptions creates a dangerous "slippery slope" for the Tour.
• Quote: "Forgiveness without cost is not reconciliation it is erasure." — Brandel Chamblee.
• Human Angle: Anthony Kim offers a rare reflection on his past, expressing regret over the poor work ethic that defined his prime.

LIV HARDBALL & TIGER AT 50

• LIV Golf has officially stopped paying fines for stars like Jon Rahm to the DP World Tour to force a settlement before 2026, a move that puts Rahm’s appearance at Adare Manor in serious jeopardy.
• Stat: Jon Rahm is now at risk of losing eligibility for the 2027 Ryder Cup.
• Fun Fact: We recount the bizarre story of the 2002 Rabbi Marc Gellman curse as Tiger Woods turns 50.

Quick Hits

JT out of TGL Season 2 with back injury • Motor City GC eyeing Scheffler for 2027 • Chamblee ranks Hogan’s swing over Tiger’s • John Daly misses the 90s "social golfer"

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On this Saturday, December 27th, 2025, we analyze the fallout of Brooks Koepka leaving LIV Golf, honor the legendary Jumbo Ozaki, and debate the end of the blade putter era.

THE COLD HARD REALITY

We dive into the shockwaves of Brooks Koepka leaving LIV Golf. Leaning on analysis from The Athletic’s Brody Miller, we discuss how Koepka "never bought in" to the team format, viewing the league as a transaction rather than an ideological shift.

• The Reality Check: Koepka is now in limbo and cannot return to the PGA Tour until August 2026.
• The Takeaway: It wasn't a revolution for Brooks; it was just business.

TRIBUTE TO A LEGEND

We pay our respects to Masashi "Jumbo" Ozaki, the "Arnold Palmer of Japan," who passed away at 78. We recount his incredible transition from professional baseball pitcher to a global golf icon who racked up 113 professional wins worldwide.

• The Stat: 113 victories across a storied career.
• The Legacy: He didn't just play the game; he popularized it for an entire nation.

TIGER TALES & TECH FAILS

Lanny Wadkins airs his grievances over his PNC Championship snub while predicting Tiger Woods will play the Champions Tour 10-12 times a year to keep pace with Charlie. Plus, we break down Tiger’s shocking 82-yard miss in the TGL simulator.

• The Quote: Lanny believes Tiger needs the reps to "keep up with Charlie during college."
• Fun Fact: Even the GOAT isn't immune to simulator glitches.

Quick Hits

The death of the blade putter • Rabbi Gellman’s curse on Tiger • Jay Haas’s unbreakable cut record

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We break down the fallout of Brooks Koepka’s shock departure from LIV Golf, the PGA Tour’s calculated response, and the changing of the guard at Smash GC.

THE RETURN OF BROOKS

• Brooks Koepka is officially leaving LIV after the 2025 season, but the real story is the PGA Tour’s lightning-fast 23-minute statement—a sign that CEO Brian Rolapp likely has the welcome mat ready despite the sit-out policy.
• Hank Haney didn’t mince words on the impact, calling the loss of the five-time major winner an "impossible to sugarcoat" blow to the rebel league’s credibility.
• On the home front, Jena Sims took to Instagram to poll fans on gift wrapping, a subtle signal that the Koepka family is looking to settle back into a "normal" life in Jupiter.

NEWS & NOTES

• Talor Gooch has been named the 2026 Captain of Smash GC, raising valid questions about whether his elite ball-striking can replace Koepka’s massive commercial appeal for the franchise.
• The golf world mourns two significant losses: Japanese legend Masashi "Jumbo" Ozaki at 78, and the tragic passing of Jake Knapp’s girlfriend, Makena White.
• Charles Barkley reveals he is addicted to the grind—playing seven days a week—and relies on a specific swing thought from Justin Thomas: "Tee the ball low and squeeze down."

Quick Hits

Wesley Bryan’s awkward Christmas card • Jon Rahm’s snowy shorts • TGL Opener (Dec 28)

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We break down Brooks Koepka’s shock decision to leave LIV Golf for family reasons, the heartbreaking retirement of Mito Pereira, and the arcade-style changes coming to TGL Season Two.

THE SMASH GC SHAKEUP

• Brooks Koepka and LIV Golf have mutually agreed to part ways following the 2025 season. The decision stems from personal reasons following a family tragedy, paving the way for Talor Gooch to take over as Smash GC Captain in 2026.
• The PGA Tour released a statement subtly noting the stability of their "competitive environment."
• A somber shift in priorities for the Koepka family following a difficult year.

MITO HANGS THEM UP

• At just 30 years old, Mito Pereira has announced his retirement from professional golf following his relegation from LIV. Citing severe burnout, the Chilean star leaves the game three years after his infamous collapse at Southern Hills.
• Pereira stated his primary goal is simply "finding peace back in Chile."
• A stark reminder of the mental toll the game takes on its rising stars.

TGL SEASON TWO

• The league returns with Atlanta Drive GC vs. New York Golf Club, unveiling a pivot to "arcade golf" featuring the new Agustin Piza-designed "Stinger" hole. Tiger Woods (back) and Justin Thomas (hip) are both out due to surgery.
• Despite the injury, Woods will maintain a "mic'd up non-playing role" on the bench.
• The format shift signals a move toward pure entertainment while the icons heal.

MCILROY 25

• Sky Sports is set to release a documentary chronicling Rory’s historic 2025 campaign, covering the Triple Crown of his career: the elusive Masters victory, the Irish Open win, and the Away Ryder Cup triumph.
• Rory is quoted in the film admitting he "doubted if this moment would ever happen again."

Quick Hits

Sky Sports extends PGA Tour deal to 2029 • Justin Rose secures 2026 Masters invite • Anthony Kim spotted at LIV Q School • Lee Trevino doesn't want to "caddie for Arnie" in the afterlife

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We break down Mito Pereira’s stunning exit from professional golf, the chaotic race for the final Masters invites, and the big money moves shaking up the LIV offseason.

MITO HANGS IT UP

• Mito Pereira shocks the golf world by announcing his retirement at age 30 following his relegation from LIV Golf, citing severe burnout and a desire to return to life in Chile.
• The decision comes after a lingering collarbone injury and admits the shadow of his heartbreaking collapse at the 2022 PGA Championship never fully faded.
• A somber reminder of the mental toll of the tour, as Pereira chooses peace at home over the grind of Q-School.

LIV’S HOT STOVE

• After failing to land Si Woo Kim for the new South Korean "Becko East" franchise, LIV Golf makes an aggressive pivot in the transfer market.
• The league has reportedly extended an eight-figure offer to World No. 32 Max Greyserman to replace Ben Campbell on the RangeGoats.
• Si Woo Kim remains on the PGA Tour, explicitly citing his desire to chase Presidents Cup legacy over the guaranteed payday.

THE MASTERS CUTOFF

• The final OWGR push for Augusta delivers drama as Ryan Gerard clutches a runner-up finish in Mauritius to secure spot #46, while Sam Stevens squeezes in at #50.
• Heartbreak for Taylor Pendrith, who finishes the year at #51, missing the automatic invite by a fraction of a point.
• Michael Brennan continues his meteoric rise from the Americas tour to book his ticket to the 2026 Masters.

TGL SEASON 2

• Tiger Woods transitions to a non-playing captain role following disc replacement surgery, with Tom Kim noting the immense pressure Tiger is placing on the team to win.
• The SoFi Center reveals significant venue tweaks, including flattened bunkers, larger greens, and new audio feeds for the broadcast.

Quick Hits

JT misses Rahm at Riv • Paige Spiranac steps back from socials • Rory’s 18 club memberships

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We break down Team Kuchar’s record-setting, emotional victory at the PNC Championship and analyze the final OWGR shuffle that secured Ryan Gerard a spot at Augusta.

FOR POPS

• Matt and Cameron Kuchar fired a tournament-record final round 54 to reach 36-under, securing a victory heavy with emotion following the recent passing of Matt’s father, Peter.
• "You know Dad was with you every step of the way." — Meg Kuchar on the 18th green.
• Matt fought back tears post-round, noting he felt "Pops giving big fist pumps" throughout the day.

THE ROAD TO AUGUSTA

• Ryan Gerard produced a clutch 63 at the Mauritius Open to force a playoff; despite losing to Jayden Schaper, the performance vaulted him into the OWGR Top 50 and into the Masters.
• Sam Stevens survives the bubble at #50, while Taylor Pendrith is the odd man out at #51.
• New qualification criteria are favoring National Open winners, opening doors for players like LIV’s Tom McKibbin via Hong Kong.

FORMAT CHANGES & SURGERIES

• Trevor Immelman dropped a bombshell that LIV Golf is considering a shift to 72 holes to finally secure OWGR accreditation.
• Tiger Woods is officially listed for the 2026 Masters following his recent back surgery.
• TGL Season 2 takes a hit as Justin Thomas is ruled out due to injury.

Quick Hits

Patrick Mahomes gifts Full Swing simulators • Rory sweeps BBC & RTE awards • Alena Sharp plays through torn meniscus

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