Chase Koepka will be returning to competitive golf (Image: Cliff Hawkins/Getty Images)
Chase Koepka is set to return to competitive on the Asian Tour this week after more than a year since his drop from . Koepka, who was one of four players ousted from the LIV ranks in 2023, was granted a spot in the International Series last year, but his failure to make an impact on the circuit meant he was not involved in any world ranking events.
He has not featured in any competitive action since playing alongside his five-time major-winning brother in the LIV Team Championship in Miami in October 2023.
Chase, 30, is now poised for a return. He is entering the Smart Infinity Philippine Open on the Asian Tour, where he appears on the entry list under the ‘Board/LIV exemptions’ category. He revealed that an injury had kept him from returning earlier.
He revealed to : “I tried hitting balls to get ready for the promotions event, and I couldn’t make a full swing.” He added: “I had to learn how to pick things up again and learn how to squeeze my hand again.”
Furthermore, Koepka credited his brother Brooks for playing a crucial role in his recovery. When asked if his illustrious sibling had any advice, Chase replied: “Brooks was [adamant] that I should not rush back.
“He kept saying, ‘You have the time, so use it to your advantage. Get healthy and find your passion for the game again.’ He also took off his golf hat and was just a good brother to me.”
Looking ahead to his goals for the future, Chase added: “My goal is to finish in the top 65 on the Asian Tour to keep my card. I know [returning from injury] is going to be difficult.”
Chase Koepka used to be a caddie for his brother (Image: Getty Images)
The past two seasons have been challenging for Chase, who played for Smash in the LIV series. His miserable campaign ended with him languishing in 48th position.
The only positive to emerge from his time on the cicruit is that he was able to bank a healthy £5.1million in prize money. While he is a wealthy man, Brooks insists his younger brother is determined to win back his tour card and re-establish himself in the sport.
The five-time major champion said: “I know he’s working hard. I know he’s been trying. We’ve been practicing together quite a bit. Honestly, he’s struggling a little bit.
“I’ve been there. We’ve all been there. Every golfer has. It’s part of it. You look at it, he was playing mini-tour golf 16 months ago. I don’t think the last year and a half has been too bad for him.”