Bryson DeChambeau confirms LIV start in 2026, Vijay Singh makes a comeback, Charley Hull launching YouTube channel. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially opted out of the LIV Golf League season 2026, starting February 7 in Riyadh. The five-time major winner reportedly remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for family commitments, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka, known as a competitive player who thrives on high-level contests, found limited motivation in LIV and originally joined in 2022 mainly due to injury concerns and to secure a retirement fund. Questions remain whether Koepka had to buy out his contract or return part of his guaranteed salary, and if he will continue to own his LIV team Smash GC, now captained by Talor Gooch.
Speculation rises regarding where Koepka will compete next. He would have immediate playing rights on the DP World Tour, likely with a penalty, or potentially return to the PGA Tour after serving a one-year suspension since his last LIV appearance, following reduced bans from former Commissioner Jay Monahan. Why hold grudges when every returning LIV player strengthens the already dominant PGA Tour? This question seems partially answered: according to ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not extended after 2022, aiming to rejoin the player ranks.
Koepka’s Reinstatement Application Prepares PGA Tour Return
Koepka’s suspension could end in August, coinciding with the conclusion of the 2026 PGA Tour season at the Tour Championship from August 27 to 30. This would enable him to be eligible for the 2027 season, envisioned to feature a compact schedule of around twenty 20-million-dollar events with limited fields, ideal for Koepka’s style. His return would also appeal greatly to PGA Tour Enterprises investors, likely the promoters of this new elite league.
Jon Rahm recently expressed confidence in Koepka’s return during the \”Subpar\” podcast, suggesting Koepka will likely play at least the minimum tournaments, especially his preferred major events. There is speculation that the PGA Tour might be lenient with Koepka’s suspension, influenced by player directors and the competition committee led by Tiger Woods, following Rory McIlroy’s recommendation to allow Koepka back immediately. A majority of fans, according to a non-representative \”Bunkered\” survey, seem supportive of his return.
DeChambeau Confirms LIV Return for 2026
Bryson DeChambeau officially confirmed his participation in the LIV Golf League for 2026. His Crushers team, featuring Charles Howell III, Paul Casey, and Anirban Lahiri, will enter their fifth consecutive season. Interestingly, DeChambeau has not announced a general contract extension, leaving room for speculation on the behind-the-scenes arrangements intended to retain LIV’s most marketable active player after Koepka’s departure.
Other Highlights: Vijay Singh’s Comeback and Charley Hull’s YouTube Channel
At age 62, Vijay Singh