Bryson DeChambeau confirms LIV start in 2026, Vijay Singh returns to PGA Tour at 62, Charley Hull to launch YouTube channel. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the LIV Golf League 2026 season, which starts on February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner will remain connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for family. This was amicably agreed upon, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil. However, speculation continues regarding Koepka’s competitive future as he is known as a top-level competitor thriving on high-stakes contests, which he has found limited in LIV. After joining LIV in 2022 due to injury concerns and securing a substantial retirement payout, it is not surprising he skipped the final contracted season, though questions remain about contract buyout and his ownership in LIV team Smash GC, now captained by Talor Gooch.
The main question is on which tours Koepka will appear next: the DP World Tour, where he could play immediately perhaps with a penalty, or the PGA Tour, where he would serve a one-year suspension since his last LIV appearance, after lifetime bans were relaxed by the former Commissioner Jay Monahan. ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which had not been extended post-2022, seeking reinstatement to the playing field.