First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh returns to compete, and Charley Hull plans her own YouTube channel. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn for the 2026 season of the LIV Golf League, which begins on February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion remains connected to the rival circuit but needs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 statement. However, Koepka, known as a competitor who thrives on high-level contests, has only been moderately motivated during his time at LIV. Originally, he moved to LIV in 2022 mainly because he feared the premature end of his career due to injuries and wanted to secure a solid retirement fund. Therefore, his skipping the last contractual season is not surprising, though some questions remain. Did he have to buy out his contract or return part of his guaranteed pay? Does he remain the owner of his LIV team Smash GC, now captained by Talor Gooch?
Speculation is now swirling about where Koepka will compete next. He would be immediately eligible for the DP World Tour—likely with a penalty—or the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension since his last LIV event due to previously imposed lifetime bans being reduced. However, the tour appears inclined to welcome top LIV returnees back, especially stars with leverage, which works in their favor. According to ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not extended after 2022, seeking re-entry into the player pool.