First start already at the Farmers; Vijay Singh eager for another go; Charley Hull launching on YouTube soon. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the LIV Golf League season 2026, which begins February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion plans to stay connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for family. This amicable agreement was the official statement from LIV CEO Scott McNeil. However, Koepka is known as a competitor who thrives in high-level contests, something the LIV lacked for him. His 2022 switch to LIV was largely because of injury worries and to secure a good retirement income. Thus, his skipping the final contract year is not surprising, though questions linger about any buyout or penalty. He remains owner of his LIV team Smash GC, which named Talor Gooch as captain.
The big speculation is where Koepka will tee off next. On the DP World Tour, where he could play immediately (perhaps paying a fine)? Or on the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension after his last LIV appearance, but lifetime bans were softened? Why be vindictive when every LIV returnee, especially a star like Koepka, benefits the stronger PGA Tour? ESPN’s Mark Schlabach reports Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed after 2022.