Torrey Pines Preview: Koepka Returns, Day and Matsuyama Lead Internationals

The PGA TOUR heads to the cliffs of La Jolla for the Farmers Insurance Open (Jan 29 - Feb 1), and the storylines are overflowing. From a major champion's return to International veterans finding their form, Torrey Pines is set to host a blockbuster week.

Brooks Koepka Returns

The headline of the week is undoubtedly the return of Brooks Koepka. Competing via the "Returning Member Program," Koepka joins the field of 147 players at Torrey Pines. He is paired with Ludvig Åberg and Max Homa for the first two rounds, a grouping that guarantees massive galleries. Koepka's form is a wildcard, but his history on tough courses makes him an instant threat.

International Heavyweights: Day & Matsuyama

For the International Team, this week is pivotal.

• Jason Day: Fresh off a sublime T2 finish at The American Express, Day arrives at a venue he owns. A two-time winner at Torrey Pines, Day's high ball flight and elite scrambling make him a favorite. If his back holds up, expect him to contend.
• Hideki Matsuyama: The Japanese superstar returns to action. Torrey Pines hasn't always been his happiest hunting ground, but his ball-striking precision is tailor-made for the South Course's narrow fairways and thick rough.

The "South Course" Test

As always, the tournament will be split between the North and South Courses for the first two days, with the weekend played exclusively on the brutal South Course. For Presidents Cup hopefuls, surviving the cut is just step one; handling the Sunday pressure at Torrey is the ultimate litmus test for Medinah.