Brooks Koepka: Call to Tiger Woods paves way for PGA Tour comeback

Brooks Koepka's return to the PGA Tour is the dominant topic at the Farmers Insurance Open. In an emotional press conference, the five-time major winner spoke about his motives, financial losses and the unusual nervousness that accompanies him before his first tee shot at Torrey Pin.

It's a picture you rarely see in professional golf: A Brooks Koepka admitting that his knees are shaking. The man known for his almost stoic calm in pressure situations is facing what is probably the most emotional turning point of his career. After retiring from LIV Golf in December, he returns to the PGA Tour this week as an official member - a move that was initiated by a very special phone call.

Watch Brooks Koepka's return to the PGA Tour at the Farmers Insurance Open LIVE here.

Brooks Koepka: The confidential exchange with Tiger Woods

Before the ink was dry on his application for reinstatement, Koepka sought advice from the sport's greatest authority. "He was the first person who came to mind," explained Brooks Koepka during the press conference before the start of the tournament. He was referring to Tiger Woods.

Despite the political tensions between the Tours, the bond between the two champions remained strong. Koepka emphasized the importance of this exchange: "I've often relied on Tiger in the past for questions, answers and dealing with things. He was the most pleasant call for me in this situation." Woods, who himself sits on the Tour's Players Advisory Council, signaled his support - a crucial signal for Koepka's return through the newly created "Returning Member Program".

Unusual emotions: Why Brooks Koepka is nervous

Although Koepka has nine victories on Tour and five Major titles to his name, the start in San Diego feels like a new beginning for him. The aplomb he normally exudes has given way to a palpable tension these days. "I'm definitely a bit more nervous this week," admitted the 35-year-old openly. It's not so much the challenging South Course at Torrey Pin that worries him, but the human element: "Maybe I'm also nervous to see how the fans react. I hope they are pleased and happy that I am back here."

However, the initial reactions of his colleagues seem to have put him in a positive mood. He was "overwhelmed" by the number of text messages that reached him after his return was announced.

Focus on family and sporting ambition

There are mainly personal reasons behind the decision to turn his back on LIV Golf. Brooks Koepka referred to a difficult period for his family after he and his wife Jena Sims had to deal with a serious loss last year. Being close to his family and a reduced travel schedule ultimately tipped the scales in favor of returning to the familiar surroundings of the PGA Tour.

Read all about the million-dollar fine for Brooks Koepka here.

In sporting terms, a tough road back to the top awaits Koepka. Due to the conditions of his return - including a 5 million dollar donation and the waiver of shares in the Tour's new equity program - he starts without the privileges of the so-called "Signature Events". "I have to work my butt off," says Koepka combatively. "I want to compete against the best like Scottie Scheffler or Rory McIlroy and see where my game stands." His goal for the week in California is clearly defined: He wants to get past the first round to feel like a "normal" professional on Tour again - preferably with a win, of course.