First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh back on the scene, Charley Hull soon launching a YouTube channel. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf League season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner is staying connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for his family. This was reportedly amicably agreed upon, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka is known as a competitive player who thrives on high-level competition, which he found limited in LIV. He had joined LIV in 2022 mainly because of injury concerns and to secure a good retirement payout. Thus, his skipping the final contractual season is not surprising, though questions remain about possible buyouts or refunding guaranteed money. He remains owner of the LIV team Smash GC, with Talor Gooch as the new captain.
Speculations are rife about where Koepka will compete next. The DP World Tour could grant immediate playing rights, possibly with a penalty, or he might return to the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension following his last LIV appearance, after previous lifetime bans were softened. Why be vindictive when a returning LIV star, especially one with leverage, benefits the established tours? According to ESPN’s Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership and rejoin the players’ ranks.