First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh is back, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh. The five-time major champion remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for his family, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. However, Koepka, known for his competitive spirit at the highest level, seemed less motivated in LIV. He initially joined LIV in 2022 due to injury concerns and to secure a solid retirement fund. His decision to skip the last contractual season raises questions about any buyout or partial refund of guaranteed money, and whether he retains ownership of his LIV team Smash GC, now captained by Talor Gooch.
Speculation is rampant about where Koepka will play next: The DP World Tour where he would be immediately eligible, possibly with a penalty, or the PGA Tour where he faces a one-year suspension starting after his last LIV event, following the significant reduction of lifelong bans issued by former commissioner Jay Monahan. Reports from ESPN’s Mark Schlabach reveal Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership and return to the playing field for the first time since 2022.