News Summary
Brooks Koepka, the five-time Major champion, is set to return to the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches from February 26 to March 1, 2026. This tournament marks Koepka’s eighth professional appearance and first since 2022, as he intends to reconnect with his roots at the PGA National’s Champion Course. His personal history with the event, combined with a substantial charitable contribution and recent performances, heightens anticipation for what promises to be a compelling tournament for both Koepka and golf fans alike.
Brooks Koepka Set to Thrill Fans at Cognizant Classic
Get ready, golf fans! Local hero and five-time Major champion Brooks Koepka is making a splash at the upcoming Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches. Scheduled from February 26 to March 1, 2026, this tournament is extra special for Koepka as it marks his return to the event after a hiatus since 2022. The excitement is palpable, as he returns to his roots at the PGA National’s Champion Course, eager to show off his skills ahead of the major championships.
A Personal Connection
For Koepka, this isn’t just another tournament; it’s a trip down memory lane. This will be his eighth appearance at the Cognizant Classic as a pro, and he fondly remembers attending the event as a child. In fact, he once carried a scoring sign as a young fan, demonstrating just how deep his connection to this tournament runs. It’s more than just competition; it’s about embracing his golfing journey, which started right here in the community he loves.
Charitable Spirit
Koepka’s return to the PGA Tour in January 2026 came with a huge heart, highlighted by a $5 million charitable contribution. A significant portion of this donation, totaling $1 million, has been directed towards the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation, the primary beneficiary of the Cognizant Classic. His commitment to giving back is as big as his ambition on the greens.
Recent Performance Insights
While Koepka’s return is being celebrated, it’s worth noting his recent performance on the PGA Tour. He kicked off his comeback with participation in two tournaments, ending with a T56 finish at the Farmers Insurance Open and missing the cut at the WM Phoenix Open. Currently ranked 263rd in the world, he’s determined to sharpen his game and build momentum leading into the major championships.
Course Changes and Strategy
Fans might be curious about how the Champion Course has shaped up since he last played. Koepka has pointed out that the course has undergone several modifications, making it easier than in previous years. Significant changes have been made to the greens and the removal of bunkers around key holes like 4, 10, and 11 could potentially create scoring opportunities for players. This might just be the year for Koepka to capitalize on these changes.
Event Overview and Competition
The Cognizant Classic serves as the kickoff for the PGA Tour’s Florida Swing, and it’s set at the challenging PGA National Champion Course in Palm Beach Gardens. This year, the field features prominent players such as Shane Lowry and defending champion Joe Highsmith. However, interestingly, only one player, Ryan Gerard, is ranked within the top 30 of the Official World Golf Ranking at No. 26. This could create a fantastic opportunity for Koepka to shine on home turf, where the crowd will undoubtedly root for their favorite son.
Final Thoughts
As the countdown continues for the Cognizant Classic, anticipation builds for what promises to be an exciting tournament. With Brooks Koepka back in action, both fans and fellow competitors are ready to witness his journey in this beloved event. Whether he comes home with the trophy or not, his story and contribution to the sport will certainly enhance the experience for everyone involved. It’s shaping up to be an unforgettable week of golf!
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches |
| Dates | February 26 – March 1, 2026 |
| Venue | PGA National’s Champion Course, Palm Beach Gardens |
| Brooks Koepka’s Participation | 8th professional appearance, 1st since 2022 |
| Koepka’s PGA Tour Return | Via “Returning Member Program” in January 2026 |
| Charitable Contribution | $5 million (including $1M to Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation) |
| Koepka’s World Ranking | 263rd (as of February 2026) |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches Set to Tee Off Next Week
Brooks Koepka Makes Dramatic Return to PGA Tour
PGA Tour and LIV Golf Consider Reunification
Golf Pride Revolutionizes the Golf Grip Market
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
