First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh back on the PGA Tour, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
It was expected: Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner will stay connected to the competitor circuit but needs more time for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 in high-level competitions, something he reportedly lacked motivation for in LIV. He initially joined LIV in 2022 due to injury concerns about his career ending soon, aiming to secure a solid retirement fund. Thus, skipping the last contractually required season does not come as a surprise, though questions remain about possible buyouts or paybacks. Koepka also remains owner of his LIV team Smash GC, which recently named Talor Gooch as new captain.
Speculations arise where Koepka will next play: the DP World Tour, where he would be immediately eligible, possibly against a penalty? Or the PGA Tour, where he must serve a one-year suspension after his last LIV event, following a reduction of the former lifetime bans by former Commissioner Jay Monahan? Why be vindictive when allowing prominent LIV returnees perfectly benefits the powerful tour? This crucial question appears partly answered. According to ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership and rejoin the player ranks after 2022.
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Any potential suspension would end this August.