First start already at Farmers, Vijay Singh eager to compete again, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has reportedly withdrawn from the LIV Golf League’s 2026 season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner remains connected to the competing circuit but needs more time for his family. This amicable agreement was officially stated by LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka, a competitor who thrives under high-level sports battles, was only moderately motivated in LIV. He joined the Saudi-backed league in 2022 mainly as his career was threatened by injuries, seeking a solid retirement fund. Thus, skipping the last contractual playing year is not surprising, though questions remain whether he had to buy out or repay part of his guaranteed fee. The 35-year-old is still owner of LIV’s Smash GC team, which has appointed Talor Gooch as the new captain.
Speculation is rife about which fairways Koepka will play on next. The DP World Tour would immediately qualify him to play, possibly with a penalty fee. Or the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension after his last LIV appearance, though life bans handed down by former commissioner Jay Monahan have been considerably softened. Why hold grudges when every prominent LIV returnee benefits the already stronger tour? This key question seems partially answered. According to ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership not renewed after 2022 and to be reinstated as a player.
<