First start already at Farmers, Vijay Singh eager to play again, Charley Hull to launch YouTube channel soon. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially opted out of the 2026 LIV Golf season starting on February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for family. This was reportedly a mutual, amicable agreement according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. However, Koepka is a competitor who thrives on top-level competition, something he found only limited at LIV. He initially joined LIV in 2022 due to injury concerns ending his career and to secure a substantial retirement fund. Thus, his skip of the final contractual season is less surprising though questions remain about possible buyouts or wage repayments. At 35, he still owns the LIV team Smash GC, which recently appointed Talor Gooch as captain.
Speculations are ongoing about where Koepka will compete next. The DP World Tour would grant immediate playing rights, possibly with a penalty, or the PGA Tour, where he would serve a one-year suspension from his last LIV appearance after lifetime bans by former commissioner Jay Monahan were softened. This softened stance favors returning LIV players, especially prominent ones, benefiting the stronger Tour. According to ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, dormant since 2022, and rejoin its player ranks.