First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh returns, Charley Hull launching a YouTube channel. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the LIV Golf League for the 2026 season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion will stay connected to the competing circuit but needs more time for family. This was mutually agreed upon, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka, a fierce competitor who thrives in high-level competition, showed limited motivation in LIV. He originally joined LIV in 2022 due to injury concerns and to secure a substantial retirement fund. His opting out of the final contracted season raises questions: did he buy out his contract or repay part of his guaranteed salary? Does he remain an owner of his LIV team Smash GC, now captained by Talor Gooch?
Speculations arise about where Koepka will play next: the DP World Tour, where he would be immediately eligible possibly with a penalty, or the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension since his last LIV event, following softened lifetime bans previously imposed. Why hold grudges when every LIV returnee strengthens the more influential Tour? ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reports Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership which was not extended after 2022.
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