First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh ready for a comeback, 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 champion will remain 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. Koepka is known as a competitive player who thrives on high-level competition, something he found limited at LIV. In 2022, he joined LIV mainly due to injuries that threatened his career’s end and to secure a solid retirement fund. Therefore, his decision to forgo the last contractual season is not surprising, although questions remain about potential buyouts or refunds. He remains an owner of his LIV team Smash GC, which has already named Talor Gooch as the new captain.
Speculation is mounting about which fairways Koepka will play next. He could compete immediately on the DP World Tour, likely facing a penalty, or on the PGA Tour, where he must serve a one-year suspension since his last LIV appearance, after the former commissioner Jay Monahan eased lifetime bans significantly. Why be vindictive when every LIV returnee, especially a star, plays into the hands of the more powerful tour? This key question seems partially answered now. According to ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed after 2022, seeking reinstatement to the players’ circle.