Bryson DeChambeau confirms LIV Golf start in 2026, Vijay Singh returns to PGA Tour at 62, Charley Hull launches YouTube channel. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the LIV Golf League for the 2026 season, which kicks off on February 7 in Riyadh. The five-time major winner will remain connected with the rival circuit but needs more time for his family, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka, known for thriving in competitive environments at the highest level, had limited motivation within LIV. He originally joined in 2022 mainly due to injury concerns and to secure a solid retirement fund. Although questions remain about whether he had to pay a buyout or return part of his guaranteed salary, he continues as owner of the LIV team Smash GC, which named Talor Gooch its new captain.
Speculation is rising about where Koepka will play next—whether immediately eligible on the DP World Tour (possibly with a penalty) or on the PGA Tour, where he must serve a one-year suspension after his last LIV appearance. The lifetime bans initially imposed by former Commissioner Jay Monahan have been significantly reduced. According to ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership that lapsed post-2022 and seeks readmission to the players’ group.
An eventual suspension would end in August, coinciding with the conclusion of the 2026 season at the Tour Championship from August 27 to 30. Koepka could then compete in 2027 under the PGA Tour’s new condensed schedule featuring about two dozen $20 million events with limited, highly competitive fields—a perfect comeback timing aligning with his preferences. PGA Tour Enterprises investors would also welcome another marquee name.
Jon Rahm recently told the \”Subpar\” podcast, \”He might need some time, but I think he will return to the PGA Tour. He’ll probably play at least the minimum, and why not play the events he likes, the big ones? If he qualifies or gets into high-profile events, he would play those as well.\” The five-time major winner might get leniency on his suspension, with input from the board, player directors, and the Tiger Woods-led competition committee, who reportedly agree with Rory McIlroy’s recommendation to allow Koepka’s immediate return. A \”Bunkered\” magazine fan poll suggests a majority share this view.
DeChambeau Confirms LIV Start for 2026
Bryson DeChambeau has officially confirmed he will compete in the LIV Golf League in 2026. His Crushers team, including Charles Howell III, Paul Casey, and Anirban Lahiri, will enter their fifth season unchanged. Interestingly, DeChambeau has not announced a general contract extension, fueling speculation about negotiations behind the scenes to retain the league’s currently most marketable star following Koepka’s exit.
Vijay Singh Returns to PGA Tour at 62
In a surprising move, Vijay Singh returns to the PGA Tour at age 62. The three-time major winner from V