First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh wants to compete again, Charley Hull to join 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As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner will remain connected to the competing circuit but needs more time for his family. This was mutually agreed upon, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka is a competitor who thrives on high-level competition and is highly motivated during such contests, which LIV struggles to fully provide. He switched mainly in 2022 due to injuries ending his career prematurely and the desire to secure a solid retirement fund. His decision not to play the final contracted season is thus not surprising, although questions remain regarding buyouts or repayment of guaranteed fees. At 35, Koepka remains owner of his LIV team Smash GC, which has already appointed Talor Gooch as captain.
Speculation is rife about where Koepka will compete next. The DP World Tour would grant immediate playing rights, possibly with a penalty. Alternatively, the PGA Tour enforces a one-year suspension after a player’s last LIV appearance, though lifetime bans imposed by former Commissioner Jay Monahan have been significantly softened. Why seek revenge when the PGA Tour benefits from signing prominent LIV returnees, wielding the upper hand? This key issue appears partly resolved. ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed post-2022, aiming to rejoin the players’ ranks.