First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh eager to compete again, Charley Hull launching her YouTube channel soon. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf League season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion remains connected to the competing circuit but needs more time for his family. This was amicably agreed upon, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka is known as a competitor who thrives in high-level contests and is motivated by competition, something he hardly found in LIV. In 2022, he joined LIV mainly because injuries made him doubt his career longevity and he sought a solid retirement fund. Thus, skipping the last contractual season is unsurprising, though questions remain about potential buyouts or repayment of guaranteed money. He also remains owner of LIV team Smash GC, which recently named Talor Gooch as captain.
Speculation is rife about which tours Koepka will appear on next. DP World Tour could grant immediate eligibility, possibly with a penalty, while PGA Tour imposes a one-year suspension after last LIV participation, though life bans were significantly softened by former Commissioner Jay Monahan. Returning LIV players, especially high-profile ones, benefit the longer-established parent tours. ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, suspended since 2022, and rejoin the players’ ranks.