First start at the Farmers, Vijay Singh eager for more, Charley Hull launching a YouTube channel soon. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner will remain connected to the competing circuit but needs more time for family. This was a friendly agreement, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka is a competitor who thrives on high-level competition, something LIV didn’t fully provide. He joined LIV in 2022 due to injury concerns and to secure significant retirement funds. His opting out of the final contractual season is not surprising, though questions remain—did he buy out his contract or repay part of his guaranteed salary? Does the 35-year-old remain owner of the LIV team Smash GC, now captained by Talor Gooch?
Speculations arise about which fairways Koepka will next appear on. The DP World Tour would grant immediate playing rights, likely with a penalty, or the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension since last LIV involvement, following George Monahan’s softened lifetime bans. Why be vengeful when every high-profile LIV returnee strengthens the PGA Tour’s position? This question partially resolved—according to ESPN’s Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership and rejoin the players’ circle.