On December 23, 2025, the PGA Tour officials received a letter from Brooks Koepka regarding his return to the tour.

The team then devised the Returning Member Program, justifying the five-time major champion’s time away and penalties. But what does Tiger Woods have to say about his return?

“As far as his integration, he has the right in our sport, with our meritocracy that we have on the PGA Tour, that he has the right to earn his way into Signature Events, and if he plays well enough, he has a chance to earn his way into the playoffs,” Woods explained at the SoFi Center as Jupiter Links got defeated in TGL season 2.

But Koepka’s return has a catch. He won’t get anything from the bonus pool and has to earn his way into the signature events. 

“Plus on top of that, he’s not taking a spot away from any player,” Woods continued. “That was one of the main concerns and one of the big things that myself and the other player directors demanded, that that was never going to be the case.”

Reflecting on the program, Woods claimed that it was created for select players. Although he didn’t reveal the names, we all know who the three golfers are. 

“We get a probably top-three-of-his-generation player back that went to another tour, played over there, and was adamant about coming back here and got out early to come back.”

With this move, the PGA Tour established a stronger stance in Woods’ life. 

What Tiger Woods Thinks of the PGA Tour After It Reinstated Brooks Koepka

“That says a lot about the PGA Tour, where we’re headed, what we have done, what we accomplished, and the players who have stayed and who have supported the Tour,” the 15-time major champion said. 

“Having another world-class player that these guys are going to try and beat, that’s what the fans demanded. That’s what the fans wanted for our fan initiative program, and I think we’ve addressed that.”

Woods views Koepka’s return as validation of the PGA Tour’s direction and values. By reinforcing merit and competition, the Tour strengthens its product for players and fans alike. But what do you think of Koepka’s comeback?

Written by

Krushna Pattnaik

Edited by

Oajaswini Prabhu