Former world No. 1 Brooks Koepka marked his long-awaited PGA Tour return by shooting a one-over 73 in the first round of the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines on Thursday.
Four years after defecting LIV Golf, the 35-year-old American recently jumped back over the fence, with this week’s tournament in California marking his first PGA Tour event outside of the majors since 2022, ending a 1404-day drought.
With a birdie on the last hole, the five-time major winner finished the opening round in equal-96th. He was cheered on by a supportive crowd, with one spectator yelling: “Welcome back Brooks!”
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MATCH CENTRE: Farmers Insurance Open live scores
“I would have liked to have driven the ball a little better,” Brooks said during his post-round chat with the host broadcaster.
“I felt like I was in the rough all day.
“Overall I’m pleased. I haven’t played a competitive round in a while, but the game feels there.”
Asked if there was anything he experienced on Thursday that he missed during his LIV absence, he responded: “There was a lot.
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Brooks breaks silence on LIV split | 24:06
“I missed the guys … it was exciting.”
Pressed on why he felt nervous ahead of Thursday’s action, Brooks declared: “Just because I care. I’ve fallen back in love with the game.”
Elsewhere, Australian duo Karl Vilips and Jason Day got their weekend off to a promising start by each scoring a five-under 67, sitting in tied-14th, with the former notching three birdies across the final four holes.
Compatriots Cam Davis and Adam Scott shot a commendable three-under 69, placed tied-36th.