First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh back in action, Charley Hull launching a YouTube channel soon. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf League season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion remains connected to the competing circuit but needs more time for his family, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka, known as a competitor who thrives on high-level competition, has had limited motivation playing LIV. He originally joined LIV in 2022 due to injury concerns threatening his career and to secure a substantial retirement fund. His waiver of the final contracted season raises questions about buyouts or repayments. Koepka remains owner of the LIV team Smash GC, which appointed Talor Gooch as captain.
Speculation is rife about where Koepka will next compete: DP World Tour, where he would likely be immediately eligible possibly with a fine, or PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension post-LIV participation, though lifetime bans imposed by former Commissioner Jay Monahan were significantly softened. This issue seems partly resolved, as ESPN reporter Mark Schlabach reported Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership and rejoin its playing members.
An eventual suspension would expire in August, coinciding with the end of the 2026 season at the Tour Championship on August 27–30. Koepka would then be eligible for 2027 when the PGA Tour launches a new schedule featuring nearly two dozen $20 million tournaments with limited, elite fields—ideal timing for his return. This prospect would also appeal to PGA Tour Enterprises investors backing the new top league.
Jon Rahm recently stated on the podcast \”Subpar\” that Koepka might need time but is expected to return to the PGA Tour, likely playing at least minimum events and big tournaments he prefers. There is speculation the PGA Tour may overlook suspension details for a five-time major winner, with input from the board, player directors, and the competition committee led by Tiger Woods, also aligning with Rory McIlroy’s recommendation to reinstate Koepka immediately; a majority of fans apparently support this per a \”Bunkered\” magazine poll.
Update: The speculation became reality: Koepka is now immediately eligible for the PGA Tour and will tee off at the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines late January, with participation at the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale already confirmed. This was made possible by the newly introduced \”Returning Member Program,\” allowing selected LIV players to regain PGA Tour membership without suspension.
DeChambeau Confirms LIV Golf Participation in 2026
Bryson DeChambeau has officially confirmed he will compete in the 2026 LIV Golf League season, with his Crushers team including Charles Howell III, Paul Casey, and Anirban Lahiri continuing into their fifth season. Notably, no general contract extension for DeChambeau has been announced, fueling speculation about behind-the-scenes arrangements, especially following Koepka’s status.
Vijay Singh Returns to PGA Tour at Age 62
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