First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh eager for another go, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner will remain connected to the competing circuit but needs more time for his family. This was amicably agreed upon, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka is a competitor who thrives on top-level competition and motivation, something he lacked at LIV. He originally joined LIV in 2022 primarily due to injury concerns about ending his career and to secure a solid retirement fund. Hence, skipping the final contract year is unsurprising, though questions remain about possible buyouts and whether he remains owner of his LIV team Smash GC, now led by Talor Gooch.
Speculations arise about where Koepka will next compete: the DP World Tour where he’d be immediately eligible, possibly with a penalty? Or the PGA Tour where a one-year suspension since his last LIV appearance remains, although the previously lifetime bans have been significantly reduced? It seems the PGA Tour is open to LIV returnees. According to ESPN’s Mark Schlabach, Koepka officially submitted his application last Friday to reinstate his membership with the PGA Tour and return to the players’ circle after not extending his status post-2022.