Bryson DeChambeau confirms LIV Golf 2026 start, Vijay Singh returns to PGA Tour, Charley Hull to launch YouTube channel. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has opted out of the LIV Golf League’s 2026 season starting February 7 in Riyadh. The five-time major champion remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more family time, according to an official statement from LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka, known as a fierce competitor who thrives under high-level competition, was less motivated at LIV events. He initially joined LIV in 2022 amid injury concerns and to secure his retirement finances. His decision to skip the final contracted season raises questions about buyout conditions and his continuing ownership stake in his LIV team Smash GC, now captained by Talor Gooch.
Speculation abounds regarding Koepka’s next playing venues—whether on the DP World Tour, where he might be eligible to play possibly under penalty, or the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension after his last LIV participation. After former Commissioner Jay Monahan softened the lifetime bans, Koepka’s reentry into the PGA Tour seems feasible. ESPN’s Mark Schlabach reported Koepka formally applied last Friday to reinstate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed after 2022.
Koepka’s PGA Tour Membership Reapplied for a Possible Return
The suspension could end this August, coinciding with the close of the 2026 season with the Tour Championship from August 27-30. This timing positions Koepka perfectly for a comeback in 2027, aligning with the PGA Tour’s newly compressed schedule featuring nearly two dozen $20 million tournaments with limited top-tier fields. Such a return would be appealing for Koepka and beneficial for PGA Tour Enterprises investors, who would welcome a marquee name.
Jon Rahm recently said on the Subpar podcast, \”He may need some time, but I think Koepka will return to the PGA Tour. He will likely play at least the minimum, maybe the big tournaments he likes. If he qualifies or is invited to big events, he’d participate.\” There are indications that the PGA Tour’s board, player directors, and rivalry committee led by Tiger Woods—who have input on suspension matters—may be inclined to allow Koepka’s return, following Rory McIlroy’s recommendation. Fans appear supportive as well, according to a non-representative poll by Bunkered magazine.
DeChambeau Confirms LIV Golf Return in 2026
Meanwhile, Bryson DeChambeau officially confirmed his participation in LIV Golf’s 2026 season. His Crushers team, featuring Charles Howell III, Paul Casey, and Anirban Lahiri, will enter their fifth season unchanged. However, DeChambeau has not announced a general contract extension, leaving room for speculation about behind-the-scenes agreements to retain LIV’s most marketable star after Koepka’s departure.
Vijay Singh Returns to PGA Tour at 62
In a surprising move, Vijay Singh is returning to the PGA Tour at 62 years old. The three