Bryson DeChambeau confirms LIV start in 2026, Vijay Singh returns at 62, Charley Hull to launch YouTube channel. The Back Nine.
Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion will remain connected to the rival circuit but needs more family time, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka, known for his competitive nature at the highest level, was less motivated during his time in LIV and initially joined in 2022 due to injuries and securing his retirement fund. Questions remain about his contract details and whether he remains owner of his LIV team Smash GC, which recently appointed Talor Gooch as captain.
Speculation abounds about where Koepka will play next—immediately eligible for the DP World Tour, perhaps with a penalty, or on the PGA Tour after serving a one-year suspension following his last LIV event. According to ESPN’s Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not extended after 2022.
Koepka’s PGA Tour Membership Reactivation
His potential suspension would expire in August, coinciding with the end of the 2026 season and the Tour Championship. Koepka would be eligible for the 2027 season, which features a revamped schedule with around two dozen $20-million tournaments and limited elite fields — a perfect time for his return. This move would also benefit PGA Tour Enterprises investors eager to add a marquee name.
Jon Rahm recently suggested in the ‘Subpar’ podcast that Koepka might initially play a minimal schedule, focusing on the events he enjoys. With player directors and the Tiger Woods-led competition committee having influence over suspensions—and Rory McIlroy advocating for Koepka’s immediate return—there is strong support. A fan survey by ‘Bunkered’ also indicates majority approval.
Other Golf News Highlights
Bryson DeChambeau confirmed he will play in LIV Golf League in 2026, keeping his Crushers team intact but without announcing a new contract, leaving room for speculation behind the scenes. Vijay Singh, at 62, is making a surprising return to the PGA Tour using his career earnings exemption, competing this week at the Sony Open in Hawaii after success on the PGA Tour Champions circuit.
The Tomorrow’s Golf League is struggling with TV ratings in its second season without Tiger Woods, who previously attracted top viewership. Organizers, including Woods and Rory McIlroy, will need a new standout star to sustain interest.
Additional Developments in Golf
Charley Hull plans to launch her own YouTube channel this summer, inspired by DeChambeau’s success as a golf professional on social media. Jason Day cryptically announced he has ‘quit’, sparking speculation about his future focus, possibly dedicating more time to the YouTube project ‘The Lads’.
Tom Phillips will succeed Alexandra Armas as CEO of the Ladies European Tour starting April 6, bringing extensive experience in the golf industry. Meanwhile, Derek Sprague steps down as PGA of America