First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh eager to play again, Charley Hull launching on YouTube soon. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh. The five-time major champion intends to stay connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for family. This was reportedly agreed upon amicably, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka, a competitor who thrives on high-level competition, was less motivated at LIV. He initially joined LIV in 2022 mainly to secure financial stability after fearing an injury-ended career. Questions remain whether he had to buy out the last contract year or return part of his guarantee money. He remains the owner of LIV team Smash GC, which recently named Talor Gooch as new captain.
Speculations are rife about where Koepka will play next—DP World Tour, where he would be immediately eligible perhaps with a penalty, or PGA Tour, serving a one-year suspension since last LIV use following the easing of lifetime bans previously imposed by former Commissioner Jay Monahan. Why hold grudges when each LIV returnee, especially a prominent one, benefits the stronger tour? ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reports Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, left inactive since 2022.