First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh back in action, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting on February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for his family. This was reportedly agreed upon amicably, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka is a competitive type who gets motivated and fired up mainly by top-level competition, which he found limited at LIV. He originally joined LIV in 2022 when he feared his career was ending due to injury and sought a solid retirement fund. So his opting out of the final contracted season is not surprising, though questions remain: Did he have to buy out his contract or return part of his guaranteed pay? Does the 35-year-old remain owner of his LIV team Smash GC, which recently named Talor Gooch captain?
Speculations abound on where Koepka will next appear. On the DP World Tour, where he would be immediately eligible—likely paying a penalty? Or on the PGA Tour, where he would have to serve a one-year suspension since his last LIV event, after former Commissioner Jay Monahan’s lifetime bans were significantly softened? Why be vindictive, if every returning LIV player, especially a prominent one, benefits the established tour that holds the stronger leverage? This key question seems partially answered: according to ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, not extended after 2022, and to be readmitted to the players’ circle.