First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh ready for another run, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected: Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for his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’s official statement. But Koepka is a competitor who thrives on top-level competition, something he found limited in LIV. He originally joined LIV in 2022 mainly due to injury concerns, looking to secure a solid retirement fund. Thus, skipping the last contracted season is not surprising, though questions remain about possible buyouts or refunding guaranteed money. Despite stepping away from playing, Koepka remains the owner of LIV team Smash GC, which recently named Talor Gooch as the new captain.
Speculations now focus on which tours Koepka will appear on next. The DP World Tour would grant immediate eligibility, possibly with a fine. The PGA Tour enforces a one-year suspension following his last LIV appearance, though lifetime bans have been significantly softened. Why be vindictive when every LIV returnee, especially a prominent one, benefits the stronger PGA Tour? This question seems partly answered. ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported that Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not extended after 2022.