Bryson DeChambeau confirms LIV start in 2026, Vijay Singh aims for a PGA Tour comeback at 62, Charley Hull launches YouTube channel. The Back Nine.
Expected? Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn for the LIV Golf League’s 2026 season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion remains connected to the competing circuit but needs more time for family. This was the friendly agreement stated by LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka is known as a competitor who gets highly motivated during top-level competitions, something LIV hasn’t fully ignited in him. He initially joined LIV in 2022 mainly because of injuries threatening his career’s end and to secure a solid retirement fund. Therefore, skipping the last contract year is not surprising, though questions remain—did he buy out his contract or return part of his guaranteed payment? Does he remain owner of his LIV team Smash GC, with Talor Gooch as the new captain?
Speculation is rife about where Koepka will play next. The DP World Tour would grant him immediate eligibility, possibly with a penalty, or the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension since his last LIV appearance after lifetime bans were softened. Why be vindictive when every high-profile LIV returnee benefits the tour holding the advantage? ESPN’s Mark Schlabach reports Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which had not been renewed after 2022.
An eventual suspension would end in August, just as the 2026 season concludes with the Tour Championship from August 27-30. He would be eligible for 2027, coinciding perfectly with the PGA Tour’s compressed schedule featuring about two dozen $20 million events with limited elite fields—ideal for Koepka’s preferences. Investors behind PGA Tour Enterprises, likely managing the new top league, would welcome another marquee name.
\”He may need some time, but I think he’ll return to the PGA Tour,\” said Jon Rahm recently on the \”Subpar\” podcast. \”He’ll likely play at least a minimum, focusing on events he likes, the big ones. If he qualifies or receives invites, he’ll play those too.\” Possibly, the PGA Tour could soften Koepka’s suspension, influenced by board members, player directors, and the Tiger Woods-led competition committee—fitting Rory McIlroy’s recommendation to allow Koepka back right away. Fans seem mostly supportive as well, according to an unscientific poll by \”Bunkered\” magazine.
DeChambeau Confirms LIV Start in 2026
Bryson DeChambeau has officially confirmed his participation in the 2026 LIV Golf League season. His Crushers team, including Charles Howell III, Paul Casey, and Anirban Lahiri, will return unchanged for the fifth season. Interestingly, DeChambeau did not announce a general contract extension, leaving speculation about behind-the-scenes arrangements to retain him after Koepka’s possible exit.
Vijay Singh Returns to PGA Tour at 62
Surprisingly, Vijay Singh announces a PGA Tour return at age 62. The