First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh eager to compete again, 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As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for family. This was reportedly agreed upon amicably, according to official LIV CEO Scott McNeil. However, given Koepka’s competitive nature, questions remain about the reasons behind his decision, especially since he joined LIV in 2022 mainly due to injury concerns and to secure a solid retirement fund. Speculation surrounds whether he had to buy out his contract or repay part of his guaranteed salary. Despite this, Koepka remains the owner of LIV team Smash GC, which recently appointed Talor Gooch as new captain.
There is intense speculation about which tour Koepka will appear on next. He could immediately play on the DP World Tour, possibly with a penalty fee, or on the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension following his last LIV participation, after previously imposed lifetime bans by former commissioner Jay Monahan were softened. Why be vindictive when every LIV returnee benefits the established tour? This key question seems partially answered. ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported that Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership and be reinstated as a player after his membership ended in 2022.