Golf legend Tom Watson believes LIV Golf returnees deserve a penalty. However, five-time major champion Brooks Koepka shrugged off the criticism after his second round at Augusta National.

When asked about how he felt about the criticism, Brooks said, "I would have to look at exactly what he said. Just going off your summary, everybody is entitled to their own opinion."

"He's not the first person that's thought that. So yeah, it is what it is. I'm just grateful to be out here," Brooks Koepka said during the post-round presser.

Koepka is climbing the leaderboard, as he hopes to enter the top ten, following the second round.

The problem stems from years of legal battles and financial disagreements between the PGA Tour and the Saudi-funded LIV Golf tour.

The feud has upset the status quo within the sport. "I thought the LIV players, when they left, they were supposed to be banned for life... that's what I would do," said Watson.

Brooks Koepka on feeling at home at the Masters

While Watson, who is among the three honorary starters at the 2026 Masters, believes the move is unjustified, Koepka has stood by his decision to return to the tour.

He feels completely at home in the changing room among his colleagues. Regarding his relationships with other players, he said, "I think no relationship has changed."

Koepka is now focusing on ensuring his mental well-being and contentment, disregarding everything else. According to him, staying passionate and competitive each week makes him an opponent worth watching.

The five-time major winner is now looking forward to new chances ahead rather than discussing fines. He mentioned, "If you're going to get the opportunity to come back out, you're going to take it."

With the course getting harder and faster, Koepka plans to let his performance do the talking. Yet, what's your take? Tell us in the comments.

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Written by

Abhishek Sharma

Edited by

Sagnik Bagchi