Strong Farmers Insurance Field Includes Brooks Koepka, Xander Schauffele
The cliffs of La Jolla are set to rumble as the 2026 Farmers Insurance Open approaches. This year’s edition at the historic Torrey Pines Golf Course isn’t just another stop on the West Coast Swing; it’s a high-stakes crossroads for the PGA Tour, headlined by a sensational homecoming and a groundbreaking return. With a field anchored by Xander Schauffele and the polarizing return of Brooks Koepka, the tournament is poised to be one of the most talked-about events in recent memory.
The Return of the King: Brooks Koepka’s PGA Tour Comeback
The biggest headline heading into the week is undoubtedly Brooks Koepka. After three and a half years with LIV Golf, the five-time major champion has officially returned to the PGA Tour via the newly established “Returning Member Program.”
Torrey Pines serves as the battlefield for his first official start back. While Koepka is a force of nature at major championships, his history at the Farmers Insurance Open is a mix of untapped potential and frustration. Having missed three consecutive cuts at this venue previously, all eyes will be on whether the “Big Game Hunter” can tame the thick rough and coastal winds of the South Course.
Note: As part of the Returning Member Program, Koepka’s entry actually expanded the field to 147 players, providing unexpected opportunities for two alternates to join the fray.
Hometown Hero: Xander Schauffele’s Quest for Torrey Glory
While Koepka brings the intrigue, Xander Schauffele brings the heart. The San Diego native and former San Diego State Aztec enters the week as the world’s No. 4 ranked player. Fresh off a monumental 2024 season that saw him capture both the PGA Championship and the Open Championship, Schauffele is arguably in the best form of his career.
Despite his global success, a win at Torrey Pines has remained elusive for the local favorite. Playing in front of family, friends, and the “Aztec” faithful, Schauffele’s precision iron play and reliable putting make him the statistical favorite to finally hoist the trophy on his home turf.
A Field Deep with Talent
Beyond the two titans at the top, the 2026 field is remarkably deep, featuring 28 of the world’s top 50 players.
Key Contenders to Watch:
- Ludvig Åberg: The Swedish sensation continues his meteoric rise. His power off the tee is a perfect match for the length of the South Course.
- Harris English: The defending champion (2025) returns with the confidence of a man who knows exactly how to navigate these greens.
- Justin Rose: A former winner here (2019) and a master of demanding layouts, Rose’s experience is invaluable when the winds pick up.
- Patrick Cantlay: Known for his ice-cold composure, Cantlay is a perennial threat on the West Coast Swing.
- Matthieu Pavon: The 2024 champion looks to prove his victory wasn’t a fluke by contending once again.
The Course: A Tale of Two Torrey Pines
The Farmers Insurance Open remains unique for its use of both the North and South courses during the first two rounds.
- The North Course: Usually plays shorter and more scoring-friendly. Players must “make their hay” here to keep up with the leaders.
- The South Course: A brutal, U.S. Open-style test. With narrow fairways, penal rough, and the famous par-5 18th hole, the South Course is where the tournament is won or lost on the weekend.
Tournament Schedule & Viewing Info
The Farmers Insurance Open continues its popular Wednesday–Saturday schedule to avoid clashing with NFL playoff coverage on Sunday.
- Round 1: Wednesday, Jan 28
- Round 2: Thursday, Jan 29 (Cut line established)
- Round 3: Friday, Jan 30
- Final Round: Saturday, Jan 31
Where to Watch:
- TV: Golf Channel & CBS
- Streaming: ESPN+ (PGA Tour Live) and Paramount+
