First start at the Farmers already, Vijay Singh eager for more, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn for the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for family. This amicable agreement was announced by LIV CEO Scott McNeil. However, Koepka is a competitor who thrives on top-level competition, something he lacked at LIV. He joined LIV in 2022 mainly due to injuries threatening his career and to secure a comfortable retirement fund. Skipping the final contractual season is therefore unsurprising, though questions linger. Did he have to buy out his contract or refund part of his guaranteed fees? Does the 35-year-old still own his LIV team Smash GC, which has appointed Talor Gooch as captain?
Speculation is rife about where Koepka will next play. The DP World Tour would immediately grant him playing rights, likely with a penalty, or the PGA Tour, where he must serve a one-year suspension since his last LIV participation after former Commissioner Jay Monahan lessened lifetime bans. Why be vindictive when every returning LIV player benefits the PGA Tour, which holds the upper hand? ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reports Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership and rejoin the player group.
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