Bryson DeChambeau confirms LIV Golf League start in 2026, Vijay Singh aims for a PGA Tour comeback at 62, and Charley Hull soon to launch a YouTube channel. The Back Nine.
Expected? Brooks Koepka has officially opted out of the LIV season starting February 7, 2026, in Riyadh; the five-time major winner remains connected to the competing circuit but seeks more family time. This amicable agreement was stated by LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka, known for his competitive drive at the highest level, found limited motivation at LIV. He originally joined LIV in 2022 anticipating an early career end due to injuries but wanted to secure his retirement finances. Thus, missing the final contractual playing year is unsurprising, though questions remain about buyouts or salary reimbursements. He remains the owner of LIV team Smash GC, now captained by Talor Gooch.
Speculation grows about Koepka’s future tour appearances. He is immediately eligible for the DP World Tour, possibly with a penalty, or the PGA Tour, where he must serve a one-year suspension after his last LIV participation, thanks to softened lifetime bans by former commissioner Jay Monahan. Returning LIV players, especially high-profile ones, benefit PGA Tour’s interests. ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reports Koepka formally submitted his application last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership post-2022.
An eventual suspension would end in August, aligning with the 2026 season’s Tour Championship from August 27–30. Thus, Koepka would be eligible for play in 2027 under the PGA Tour’s revamped schedule featuring nearly two dozen $20 million events with limited fields — a perfect re-entry moment that suits Koepka’s style. Investors in PGA Tour Enterprises would welcome another big name.
\”He might need some time, but I think he will return to the PGA Tour,\” said Jon Rahm recently on the \”Subpar\” podcast. \”He’ll likely play at least the minimum, sticking to big events he likes. If he qualifies or is invited to elite tournaments, he’ll play those too.\” The Tiger Woods-led competition committee and player directors hold influence over suspensions, and Rory McIlroy favors Koepka’s immediate return. A majority of fans agree, according to a non-representative poll by \”Bunkered\” magazine.
DeChambeau Confirms LIV Start for 2026
Bryson DeChambeau officially confirmed he will compete in LIV Golf’s 2026 season. His Crushers team, featuring Charles Howell III, Paul Casey, and Anirban Lahiri, will enter their fifth season unchanged. Interestingly, no general contract extension has been announced for DeChambeau, fueling speculation about behind-the-scenes arrangements to retain LIV’s most marketable star after Koepka’s departure.
Vijay Singh Makes PGA Tour Return at Age 62
In a surprising move, three-time major winner Vijay Singh returns to the PGA Tour at 62. Utilizing his career money list exemption, the Fijian will compete this week at the Sony Open in Hawaii. Singh previously played on the PGA