Scottie Scheffler backs Brooks Koepkas PGA Tour | Golf News

Scottie Scheffler, who has long held the title of world’s best golfer, is not fazed by the return of Brooks Koepka, ranked 244th, to the PGA Tour.

Despite Koepka’s starvation for victory after being unable to earn rating factors from LIV Golf occasions in latest years, Scheffler’s response to his comeback was far less dramatic than that of keen followers, media pundits, and relations delighted to have him back nearer to home.

On a latest episode of Subpar with Colt Knost and Drew Stoltz, Knost shared a textual content dialog with Scheffler following the official announcement of Koepka’s reinstatement. When requested about Koepka’s return to the PGA, Scheffler merely replied, “I think it was a smart move.” Contrary to the anticipated uproar from {the golfing} group, the world No. 1 is recognizing the return of another top-tier participant to the ranks of the world’s best.

This provides Scheffler another contender to beat outdoors of major tournaments. Knost identified that Scheffler relishes the chance to compete against the best every week, and Koepka’s return would not truly deprive anybody of a spot. The PGA has announced plans to broaden the fields, guaranteeing no gamers will probably be edged out of occasions just like the Farmers Insurance Open or the WM Phoenix Open, where Koepka is set to take part, studies the Mirror US.

Much of the ire from LIV critics has been directed at gamers who had access to LIV-level funds and may doubtlessly return to the tour with minimal repercussions, benefiting those who stayed loyal when making the choice. Koepka himself acknowledged that the penalties for his return had been harsh but warranted.

These penalties embrace agreeing to a $5 million charitable donation, a five-year ban from competing for PGA Tour equity, and no FedEx Cup bonus money in 2026, as nicely as performance-based access to signature occasions.

“The penalty is significant, but I understand why they’ve done it,” Koepka acknowledged. “It hurts, but it’s supposed to. I have a lot of work to do with the players, and I want to do it one-on-one. I want to have those conversations, but behind closed doors.”

Tiger Woods also publicly endorsed the transfer during a TGL event between his Jupiter Links GC workforce in a matchup against New York.

He emphasised that Koepka will need to earn his manner back into signature occasions through efficiency, relatively than relying on his title recognition or particular exemptions.

PGA veteran and world No. 35 Michael Kim felt Koepka was punished too severely.

Names like Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm completely match the factors for the PGA’s Turning Player Program, while Cameron Smith has already dedicated to sticking with LIV.