First start already at the Farmers Insurance Open, Vijay Singh is making a comeback, and Charley Hull will soon launch her own YouTube channel. 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As expected: Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh.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 will remain connected to the competing circuit but needs more time for family, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka, known for his competitive spirit and motivation during high-level sports battles, has been less motivated at LIV. He joined LIV in 2022 primarily due to injury concerns and the opportunity to secure financial stability for his retirement. His withdrawal from the final contracted season raises questions: Did he have to buy out his contract or return part of his guaranteed money? Will the 35-year-old remain the owner of the LIV team Smash GC, which recently appointed Talor Gooch as captain?
Speculation abounds on where Koepka will play next. The DP World Tour would allow immediate eligibility, possibly with a penalty. The PGA Tour has suspended him for one year following his last LIV appearance after reducing previously lifetime bans. The PGA Tour is open to LIV returnees, especially prominent names that strengthen its competitiveness. According to ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach, Koepka officially applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which had not been renewed after 2022, seeking reinstatement.