First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh still eager to compete, Charley Hull to launch YouTube channel soon. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season beginning February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion will remain connected to the competing circuit but needs more family time. This was reportedly agreed upon amicably, according to official LIV CEO Scott McNeil statements. Koepka is known as a competitor who thrives on high-level competition, something LIV didn’t fully provide. In 2022, Koepka joined LIV primarily due to injury concerns and to secure a solid retirement fund. Given this, skipping the last contractual season isn’t surprising, although questions linger about possible buyouts or paybacks. Despite this, Koepka remains owner of the LIV team Smash GC, now captained by Talor Gooch.
Speculation is rife about where Koepka will tee off next. The DP World Tour would grant him immediate playing rights, possibly with a penalty, or the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension since his last LIV event, although previous lifetime bans were significantly softened. Why hold grudges when a returning LIV player benefits the stronger Tour? This critical question seems partly answered. ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported last Friday that Koepka formally applied to reinstate his PGA Tour membership which was not renewed after 2022, seeking re-entry into the player’s circle.