First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh eager to return, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting on February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion will remain connected to the competing circuit but needs more time for family. This was reportedly amicably agreed upon, according to official statement by LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka is a competitive type, highly motivated and energized by top-level competition, which he found somewhat lacking at LIV. Having joined LIV in 2022 mainly due to injury concerns threatening his career and the opportunity to secure a substantial retirement fund, it is not surprising he declined to play the final contractual season, though questions remain about potential buyouts or repayment of guaranteed fees. He remains owner of his LIV team Smash GC, which has named Talor Gooch as new captain.
Speculation is rife over which fairways Koepka will next appear on: the DP World Tour, where he would be instantly eligible perhaps after a penalty payment, or the PGA Tour where he must serve a one-year suspension from his last LIV event, after previous lifetime bans under former Commissioner Jay Monahan were significantly softened. This key question now seems partially answered. ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach revealed Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed after 2022, seeking reinstatement to the player ranks.