First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh ready to compete again, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially opted out of the 2026 LIV Golf season, starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion will stay connected to the rival circuit but needs more family time. This was reportedly agreed upon amicably, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka, a highly competitive player who performs best in top-level contests, had limited motivation with LIV. He initially joined LIV in 2022 due to injury concerns, thinking his career was near end and aiming to secure retirement funds. His decision not to play the final contracted season no longer surprises, though questions remain: Did he pay a buyout or repay part of his guaranteed salary? Does the 35-year-old remain an owner of his LIV team Smash GC, which has named Talor Gooch as its new captain?
Speculation abounds about which tours Koepka will join next. He could immediately play on the DP World Tour, possibly with a penalty, or return to the PGA Tour where a one-year suspension from his last LIV appearance remains, albeit softened from the original lifetime bans imposed by former commissioner Jay Monahan. Why be vindictive when any high-profile LIV returnee benefits the PGA Tour, which holds greater leverage? This central question seems partially answered: ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate and be reinstated in the PGA Tour membership, which he did not renew after 2022.