First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh wants to play again, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season that starts on February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner will stay connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for his family. This was reportedly agreed upon amicably, according to an official statement by LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka, a fierce competitor, thrives in high-level competition, which he rarely found in LIV. He initially joined LIV in 2022 after injury concerns threatened his career, seeking a substantial retirement fund. Thus, skipping his final contracted season is not surprising, though questions remain about possible buyouts or refunding part of his guaranteed salary. He still owns his LIV team Smash GC, which has appointed Talor Gooch as captain.
Speculations arise about where Koepka will compete next. DP World Tour allows immediate eligibility, possibly with penalties; PGA Tour requires serving a one-year suspension after his last LIV start, following a reduction of earlier lifetime bans. The PGA Tour seems open to accepting high-profile LIV returnees, benefitting the Tour’s strength. According to ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed after 2022.
An eventual suspension would end in August, coinciding with the close of the 2026 season at the Tour Championship from August 27-30. This timing positions Koepka perfectly for the 2027 season, especially with the PGA Tour’s plan for around two dozen $20 million events with limited, top-tier fields, aligning with his preferences. PGA Tour Enterprises investors would welcome a name of his stature. Jon Rahm recently expressed confidence in Koepka’s return on the podcast \”Subpar,\” predicting he’ll play the minimum and select his favorite major events. The competition committee led by Tiger Woods and player directors, including Rory McIlroy who supports Koepka’s immediate return, have influence over any suspension waivers.
Update: Koepka is immediately eligible for the PGA Tour and will tee off at the Farmers Insurance Open in late January at Torrey Pines. Participation at the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale in Arizona is also confirmed. This is enabled by a newly introduced \”Returning Member Program,\” allowing selected LIV golfers to regain PGA Tour membership without serving suspensions. Koepka’s recent major wins, such as the 2023 PGA Championship, were considered in this decision. The PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp stated this opportunity is a one-time, clearly defined chance expiring February 2, with no guarantee it will reopen. This development likely impacts other LIV players and causes concern within LIV Golf.
Koepka must donate $5 million to the PGA Tour charity fund and is excluded from the 2026 FedEx Cup bonus system and the PGA Tour equity program for five years.
DeChambeau Confirms LIV Start for 2026
Bryson DeChambeau officially confirmed his participation in the 2026 LIV Golf League season. His Crushers