First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh eager to compete again, Charley Hull launching on YouTube soon. The Back Nine.
Expected: Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn from the LIV Golf League season 2026 starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion will remain connected to the competing circuit but needs more time for family. This was reportedly agreed upon amicably, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. However, skepticism remains. Koepka is a competitor who gets highly motivated and fired up only in top-level contests, something he lacked at LIV. He joined LIV in 2022 mainly because injuries made him fear the end of his career and wanted a solid retirement fund. Hence, skipping the final contract year is not surprising, though questions persist: Did he have to buy out his contract, repay part of the guaranteed salary? Is he still owner of his LIV team Smash GC, which has named Talor Gooch as new captain?
Most speculation revolves around where Koepka will next play. On the DP World Tour, where he would be immediately eligible—probably involving a fine? Or on the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension after his last LIV appearance, a suspension significantly reduced from a lifetime ban imposed by former Commissioner Jay Monahan? Why be vindictive when every returning LIV player, especially a prominent one like Koepka, benefits the PGA Tour that holds more leverage? This crucial question seems partly answered. ESPN reporter Mark Schlabach revealed Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which lapsed after 2022, seeking readmission to the player ranks.