Daniel Berger is happy to have his old college teammate, Brooks Koepka, back on the PGA Tour.

The four-time PGA Tour winner and five-time major champion share a connection that began long before their time on golf’s biggest accolades. They both grew up in Palm Beach County and later became teammates at Florida State University, where they spent much of their time together.

Years later, their off-course ties remained evident when Berger purchased Koepka’s Tequesta home in 2018. Berger has also spoken about how well they understand each other, often anticipating one another’s decisions.

Speaking at the 2026 Cognizant Classic, Berger sent a clear message of support for Brooks Koepka:

“I like playing with Brooks. I'm happy he's back. I think it's good for the TOUR. Obviously, college teammates with him, and played Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup with him. I think it's a good thing for us.”

The duo first teamed up on the international stage at the 2017 Presidents Cup. They moved 1-up early after a birdie on the opening hole, but later fell to Louis Oosthuizen and Branden Grace.

A few years later, they reunited at the 2021 Ryder Cup. In their victory over Lee Westwood and Matthew Fitzpatrick, they became the first teammates from the same college to win a Ryder Cup match together since 1983. 

They also faced Jon Rahm and Sergio Garcia, a match that included a dispute involving Koepka and rules officials over a drop.

Thus, considering their long history as teammates and partners, Berger’s view on Koepka’s performance holds significance.

Daniel Berger backed Brooks Koepka after his Round 1 at the Cognizant Classic

“He shot 3-over, so I don't think he played his best,” Berger said. “Obviously had a difficult time on 17, but if there's one thing I know, it's he can turn it around in an instant. I expect him to come out tomorrow and play well.”

After three years away, Koepka is back on the PGA Tour, and the 2026 Cognizant Classic is his third start since returning.

This week, he teed it up at PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens for his hometown event. He began Round 1 steadily and reached 1-under through 12 holes. 

Then the momentum shifted. A bogey on the 16th was followed by a double-bogey on the par-3 17th, where he stepped into the water and removed his shoe and sock to play his shot. 

By the end of the day, he signed for a 3-over 74 and sat tied for 98th, outside the projected cut line of top 65 and ties.

Now with Round 2 underway, he needs a lower score to extend his week.

Looking at the bigger picture, his return season has been uneven so far. He missed the cut at the WM Phoenix Open and finished T56 at the Farmers Insurance Open. At the Cognizant Classic, putting again became a factor, with missed chances inside 11 feet limiting progress.

Standing at No. 263 in the Official World Golf Ranking, Koepka is working to build form as he settles back into full-time competition.

What do you think about Brooks Koepka’s return to the PGA Tour and his performance so far? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by

Aditi Singh

Edited by

Joyita Das