Bryson DeChambeau confirms LIV start in 2026, Vijay Singh returns to PGA Tour at 62, Charley Hull to launch YouTube channel soon. The Back Nine.
Expected? Brooks Koepka has officially opted out of the 2026 LIV Golf season, which begins February 7 in Riyadh; however, the five-time major champion remains connected to the rival circuit, citing the need for more family time. This was reportedly agreed upon amicably, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil. But Koepka is known as a competitor who thrives on high-level competition, something not fully realized during his LIV stint. Initially joining LIV in 2022 largely due to injury concerns and to secure a robust retirement fund, Koepka’s choice to skip his final contractual season is not surprising. Questions remain, though: did he have to buy out of his contract or refund part of his guaranteed payout? And does the 35-year-old remain an owner of his LIV team Smash GC, which has already appointed Talor Gooch as captain?
Speculation is rife about where Koepka will next compete. The DP World Tour could allow him immediate playing rights—likely with a penalty—or the PGA Tour, where he would serve a one-year suspension for his last LIV event after the lifetime bans originally issued by former commissioner Jay Monahan were softened. But why be vindictive when every returning LIV player—especially a high-profile one—benefits the PGA Tour, which holds the stronger leverage? This key question seems partially answered. ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported that Koepka formally submitted a request last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed after 2022, aiming to rejoin the player ranks.
DeChambeau Confirms LIV Start for 2026
Meanwhile, Bryson DeChambeau officially confirmed he will compete in the LIV Golf League in 2026. His Crushers team, with Charles Howell III, Paul Casey, and Anirban Lahiri, moves unchanged into its fifth season. Interestingly, DeChambeau has not announced a general contract extension. Behind the scenes, negotiations might be underway to retain him as the league’s most marketable player after Koepka’s departure. More speculation on this to come.
Vijay Singh Returns to PGA Tour at 62
Surprising move: Vijay Singh is making a comeback on the PGA Tour at age 62. The three-time major winner from Fiji uses an exemption based on his career money list standing and is set to compete at this week’s Sony Open in Hawaii. Singh has previously competed on the PGA Tour Champions, securing five titles including the Senior Players Championship.
TGL Faces Weak TV Ratings in Second Season Start
Weak start: Without Tiger Woods, Tomorrow’s Golf League (TGL) struggles in TV ratings. The novelty effect in the second season has naturally diminished. ABC’s broadcast of the opening day drew only 646,000 viewers, down from 919,000 fans in the prior season’s opening on ESPN. The second match between Atlanta and The Bay attracted a mere 354,000 viewers.