First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh eager to compete again, Charley Hull launching on YouTube soon. The Back Nine.
It was expected: Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf League season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner will remain connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for his family. This was amicably agreed upon, according to the official statement from LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka is a competitor who thrives in top-level competition, something that was limited during his LIV stint. In 2022, Koepka joined LIV mainly because of injury concerns and a desire to secure good retirement money. Thus, skipping his last contractual season is not surprising, though questions remain. Did he buy out his contract or repay part of his guaranteed salary? Does the 35-year-old remain owner of his LIV team Smash GC, which already named Talor Gooch as new captain?
Speculation revolves around where Koepka will appear next. DP World Tour would grant immediate eligibility, likely with a penalty, or perhaps the PGA Tour, where he must serve a one-year suspension since his last LIV appearance after former commissioner Jay Monahan softened lifetime bans. Why be vindictive when every LIV returnee, especially a prominent one, benefits the more powerful existing tour? This essential question seems partially answered. According to ESPN’s Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not extended after 2022, seeking reinstatement as a tour player.