First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh ready to compete again, Charley Hull launching on YouTube soon. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for his family. This was reportedly agreed upon amicably, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka is a competitive athlete who gets highly motivated by top-level competition, something LIV struggled to deliver for him. He moved to LIV mainly in 2022, believing his career was nearing an end due to injuries and seeking a solid retirement fund. Thus, skipping the final contracted season is unsurprising, although questions remain about buyouts or refunding guaranteed money. He also remains owner of LIV team Smash GC which appointed Talor Gooch as the new captain.
Speculation centers on which tours Koepka will next appear on. He could play immediately on the DP World Tour, possibly with a penalty, or on the PGA Tour where he would serve a one-year suspension after his last LIV event—lifelong bans by former Commissioner Monahan have been greatly softened. It seems more sensible not to punish LIV returnees excessively, especially big names who benefit the PGA Tour. ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which had lapsed after 2022.