First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh returning, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially opted out of the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner will remain connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for family. This is according to an amicable agreement stated by LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka, known as a competitor who thrives on top-level competition, was less motivated by LIV events. Having joined LIV in 2022 mainly due to injury concerns and to secure a solid retirement fund, his decision to skip his last contractual season is not surprising, though questions remain if he had to pay back part of his guaranteed salary or buy out his contract. Despite this, he remains owner of LIV team Smash GC, which recently named Talor Gooch as captain.
Speculation is rife about where Koepka will tee off next — on the DP World Tour where he is immediately eligible, likely with a penalty, or the PGA Tour where he must serve a one-year suspension since his last LIV event, after lifetime bans from former commissioner Jay Monahan were softened. It makes little sense to be vindictive against returning LIV players, especially prominent ones like Koepka. ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed after 2022, seeking reentry to the player circle.