First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh eager for more, Charley Hull launching on YouTube soon. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner will remain connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for his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 reportedly agreed upon amicably, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil. However, Koepka is known as a competitor who thrives on high-level competition and motivation, which he found somewhat lacking at LIV. Having joined LIV predominantly in 2022 due to injury concerns about his career ending and to secure a good retirement fund, it is no surprise he forgoes his final contracted season, though questions remain whether he bought out or repaid part of his guaranteed salary. He remains owner of LIV team Smash GC, with Talor Gooch as its new captain.
Speculation grows about which fairways Koepka will soon appear on: the DP World Tour, where he would be eligible immediately—possibly with a penalty? Or the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension from his last LIV start, following the easing of previously imposed lifetime bans by former Commissioner Jay Monahan? Why be vindictive when every high-profile LIV returnee benefits the PGA Tour’s leverage? This critical question seems partially answered: according to ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed after 2022, seeking reinstatement among players.