First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh eager to compete again, Charley Hull launching a YouTube channel 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As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion remains connected to the competing circuit but needs more time for family. This was amicably agreed upon, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. However, Koepka is known as a competitor who thrives in top-level contests—a motivation he found limited in LIV. He switched to the Saudi-backed league in 2022 primarily due to injury concerns about ending his career early and securing a significant retirement fund. His decision to skip the final contracted season therefore raises questions about possible buyouts or repayments. Koepka, 35, still co-owns his LIV team Smash GC, led now by captain Talor Gooch.
Speculations abound about where Koepka will compete next. The DP World Tour offers immediate eligibility, likely with penalties, while the PGA Tour enforces a one-year suspension after the last LIV participation, a ban significantly softened from the lifetime suspension imposed by former Commissioner Jay Monahan. With the PGA Tour benefiting from LIV players’ returns, the question seemed partly answered. ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported that last Friday Koepka formally applied to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which had lapsed after 2022, seeking reinstatement.