First start already at the Farmers; Vijay Singh wants to compete again, Charley Hull to launch YouTube channel soon. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has opted out of the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for family. This was amicably agreed upon, according to official statements from LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka, known as a competitor who thrives in high-level competition, was less motivated in LIV. He initially joined in 2022 mainly due to injury worries and to secure good retirement money. His decision to skip his final contracted season is not surprising, though questions remain about contract buyouts and his ownership status of the LIV team Smash GC, recently captained by Talor Gooch.
Speculations abound about where Koepka will next compete: the DP World Tour, where he would be immediately eligible—possibly with a fine—or back on the PGA Tour, where he must serve a one-year suspension following his last LIV appearance. This was due to former commissioner Jay Monahan’s reduced lifetime bans. Why be vindictive when every high-profile LIV returnee benefits the PGA? This question seems partially answered; ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported that Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership and rejoin the player pool.
Update: The predicted leniency happened: news spread quickly that Koepka is immediately eligible to play on the PGA Tour and will tee off at the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines in late January. He is also confirmed for the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale. This was made possible by the newly introduced \”Returning Member Program,\” which allows selected LIV players to resume PGA Tour membership without suspension.
DeChambeau Confirms LIV Start for 2026
Meanwhile, Bryson DeChambeau officially confirmed participation in the 2026 LIV Golf League. His Crushers team with Charles Howell III, Paul Casey, and Anirban Lahiri remains unchanged. Interestingly, DeChambeau has not announced a general contract extension, sparking speculation on behind-the-scenes agreements following Koepka’s departure, as the league seeks to retain its most marketable player.
Vijay Singh Returns to PGA Tour at 62
In a surprising move, three-time major winner Vijay Singh, 62, returns to the PGA Tour using an exemption due to his career money list position, starting this week at the Sony Open in Hawaii. Singh previously competed on the PGA Tour Champions, winning five titles including the Senior Players Championship.
Tomorrow’s Golf League Struggles in Season Two
The TGL’s second season debut without Tiger Woods drew only 646,000 viewers on ABC, down from 919,000 viewers on ESPN in season one. Interest further declined for the second match between Atlanta and The Bay with just 354,000 viewers. The absence of the ‘GOAT’ and the novelty’s fade challenge the league’s enthusiasm. Creators Woods, Rory McIlroy, and Mike McCarley face the tough task of finding