Bryson DeChambeau confirms LIV Golf start in 2026, Vijay Singh returns to PGA Tour at 62, Charley Hull launches YouTube channel. The Back Nine.Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh, officially staying connected to the circuit but prioritizing family time, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Known as a fierce competitor, Koepka’s motivation was limited in LIV, and after switching in 2022 amid injury concerns, questions remain about his contract and role with Smash GC, his LIV team. Speculation surrounds his future tours: whether the DP World Tour with immediate eligibility, likely paying a penalty, or the PGA Tour where he faces a one-year suspension post-LIV participation. Recently, ESPN’s Mark Schlabach reported Koepka has formally applied to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, aiming for a 2027 comeback aligned with the tour’s revamped, high-profile schedule. Jon Rahm expressed confidence in Koepka’s return, highlighting his likely selective participation in preferred top events, backed by support from the PGA Tour leadership and fan base. Meanwhile, Bryson DeChambeau confirmed his participation in LIV Golf 2026 with Crushers teammates Charles Howell III, Paul Casey, and Anirban Lahiri, though no general contract extension was announced. Vijay Singh, at 62, returns to the PGA Tour utilizing his career earnings exemption, starting at this week’s Sony Open in Hawaii after winning five titles on the PGA Tour Champions. The Tomorrow’s Golf League (TGL) suffers declining TV ratings in its second season without Tiger Woods, with ABC’s opening day drawing 646,000 viewers, down from 919,000 during the first season premiere on ESPN. TGL leaders Woods, Rory McIlroy and partner Mike McCarley face challenges finding a new star. Charley Hull announced a YouTube channel launch for summer, following Bryson DeChambeau’s success. Jason Day cryptically stated “I’ve quit” on Instagram, fueling speculation about his future focus on content creation rather than PGA Tour competition. Tom Phillips will become the new CEO of the Ladies European Tour starting April 6, bringing extensive golf industry experience. Derek Sprague resigns as PGA of America CEO after one year, citing family commitments. The organization faced criticism over handling fan misconduct during the 2025 Ryder Cup. Lastly, golf legends Bernhard Langer, Sir Nick Faldo, Ian Woosnam, and Sandy Lyle gathered for a memorable roundtable discussion reflecting on their careers and the late Severiano Ballesteros.
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Koepka Applies to Rejoin PGA Tour; DeChambeau, Singh, Hull Update
