First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh returning at 62, Charley Hull launching a YouTube channel soon. 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As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion will stay connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for his family. This was a mutual agreement, according to the official statement by LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka is a competitive type who thrives in high-level sporting contests, something he found limited during his time with LIV. He originally moved to the Saudi-backed league in 2022 due to injury concerns near career end and to secure a substantial retirement fund. Thus, his opting out of the last contracted season is not surprising, though questions remain about possible buyouts or repayments. He remains owner of LIV team Smash GC, with Talor Gooch as new captain.
Speculation is rife about where Koepka will next compete: the DP World Tour, where immediate eligibility is possible likely with penalties; or the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension after his last LIV appearance, following significant softening of previously lifetime bans imposed by former commissioner Jay Monahan. Why hold grudges when a returning LIV player benefits the dominant Tours? This question seems partly answered as ESPN’s Mark Schlabach reported Koepka formally requested restoring his PGA Tour membership last Friday.