Bryson DeChambeau confirms LIV start 2026, Vijay Singh returns to PGA Tour at 62, Charley Hull launching YouTube channel. The Back Nine.
Expected? Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the LIV Golf League for the 2026 season, starting on February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner remains connected to the rival circuit but needs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. Koepka is known as a competitor who thrives in high-level competition, something he only partially found in LIV. He initially joined LIV in 2022 amid injury concerns and with the intention of securing a strong retirement fund. His decision to skip the final contractual season is therefore not surprising, though questions remain about potential buyouts or repayments. It is also unclear if he remains an owner of the LIV team Smash GC, which has named Talor Gooch as new captain.
Speculation is rife about where Koepka will compete next. He could play immediately on the DP World Tour, possibly facing a penalty, or on the PGA Tour, where he would serve a one-year suspension following his last LIV event due to the relaxation of previously lifetime bans issued by former commissioner Jay Monahan. Why be vindictive when every returning LIV player benefits the PGA Tour? This question seems partially answered as ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported that Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed after 2022.
Koepka reapplies for PGA Tour membership
The suspension would expire in August, coinciding roughly with the end of the 2026 season at the Tour Championship. Koepka would be eligible for 2027, aligning with the PGA Tour’s new schedule consolidating about two dozen $20 million tournaments with elite, limited fields—a perfect timing for Koepka’s return. PGA Tour Enterprises investors would also welcome another marquee name.
\”He might need some time, but I think he’ll return to the PGA Tour,\” said Jon Rahm recently on the \”Subpar\” podcast. \”He’ll probably play at least the minimum, and why not the tournaments he likes, the big ones. If he qualifies or is invited to top events, he’d likely participate.\” A lenient stance on Koepka’s suspension could come from the PGA Tour’s board, player directors, and the competition committee led by Tiger Woods, supporting Rory McIlroy’s recommendation to reinstate Koepka immediately. A majority of fans appear to share this view, according to a non-representative survey by \”Bunkered\” magazine.
DeChambeau confirms LIV 2026 start
Bryson DeChambeau officially confirmed he will compete in the LIV Golf League in 2026. His Crushers team with Charles Howell III, Paul Casey, and Anirban Lahiri will remain unchanged into the fifth season. Interestingly, DeChambeau has not announced a general contract extension, sparking speculation about behind-the-scenes arrangements to retain LIV’s most marketable player following Koepka’s departure.
Vijay Singh returns to PGA Tour at 62