First start at the Farmers, Vijay Singh returns, Charley Hull launching a YouTube channel soon. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner will remain connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for family. This amicable agreement was officially stated by LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka, a competitor who thrives in high-level competition, was only partially motivated in LIV. He originally joined LIV in 2022 mainly due to injury concerns and to secure a substantial retirement fund. Thus, skipping the final contractual season is not surprising, though questions linger about buyouts or returning guaranteed payments. He remains owner of LIV team Smash GC, already captained by Talor Gooch.
Speculation is rife about where Koepka will next compete—whether on the DP World Tour, where he would be instantly eligible likely paying a penalty, or the PGA Tour, where he must serve a one-year suspension post-LIV participation after lifetime bans were reduced. Why be vengeful when returning LIV players benefit the established tours? ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reports Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate PGA Tour membership and rejoin the player pool.
An eventual suspension would end in August, coinciding with the conclusion of the 2026 season. Koepka would be eligible in 2027 for the new PGA Tour schedule featuring around two dozen $20 million tournaments and limited fields—ideal timing for his return and welcoming to investors backing the new top league.
Jon Rahm recently said on the “Subpar” podcast, \”He might need some time, but I think he’ll return to the PGA Tour. He’ll likely play at least the minimum, focusing on the big events he likes. If qualified, he’ll compete in those.\” The PGA Tour board, player directors, and Tiger Woods-led competition committee, including Rory McIlroy’s recommendation to allow Koepka back immediately, may ease his return. Most fans also favor this, according to a Bunkered magazine survey.
Update: \”Perhaps an eye is turned for a five-time major winner at Ponte Vedra Beach\”—just so has happened. News spread rapidly that Koepka is immediately PGA Tour eligible and will tee off at the Farmers Insurance Open late January at Torrey Pines, also confirmed for the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale. This became possible through the newly introduced \”Returning Member Program,\” allowing select LIV players to rejoin the PGA Tour without suspension.
DeChambeau Confirms LIV Start for 2026
Bryson DeChambeau officially confirmed his participation in the LIV Golf League in 2026. His Crushers team with Charles Howell III, Paul Casey, and Anirban Lahiri will enter its fifth season unchanged. However, DeChambeau has not announced a general contract extension, fueling speculation about behind-the-scenes arrangements to retain LIV’s most marketable player after Koepka’s exit.
Vijay Singh Returns to PGA Tour at 62
In a surprising move, Vijay Singh returns to the PGA Tour at age