First start at the Farmers, Vijay Singh is back, Charley Hull heading to YouTube soon. 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As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for his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 competitor who thrives on high-level competition, something that was limited in LIV. He initially joined LIV in 2022 primarily due to injuries threatening his career and to secure a solid retirement fund. Therefore, his refusal to play the last contracted season is not surprising, although questions remain. Did he buy out his contract or repay part of his guaranteed fee? Does the 35-year-old remain an owner of the LIV team Smash GC, which appointed Talor Gooch as the new captain?
Speculation abounds about where Koepka will next compete. On the DP World Tour, where he would be immediately eligible to play, possibly subject to a penalty? Or on the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension since his last LIV appearance, after lifetime bans imposed by former commissioner Jay Monahan were significantly softened? Why be vengeful when every LIV returnee, especially a prominent one, benefits the longer-established tour? This key question seems partially answered. According to ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reinstate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed after 2022, and to be readmitted to the player field.