First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh ready for a comeback, Charley Hull launching on YouTube soon. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf League season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion will remain connected to the rival circuit but needs more family time. This was amicably agreed upon, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka is known to be a competitor who thrives in top-level competition and lights up during high-stakes contests. That was limited during his time with LIV. He initially joined LIV in 2022 mainly because injuries made him doubt continuing his career, and he wanted a substantial retirement fund. So, skipping the final contract year is not surprising, although questions remain about possible buyouts or refunds. At 35, he remains owner of the LIV team Smash GC, which has appointed Talor Gooch as the new captain.
Speculation is rife about which tours Koepka will next appear on. On the DP World Tour, where he would be immediately eligible, possibly with a fine? Or the PGA Tour, where he serves a one-year suspension since his last LIV appearance, after lifetime bans by former commissioner Jay Monahan were significantly softened? There’s little reason for vengeance when every returning LIV player benefits the stronger PGA Tour. This question seems partly answered. ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, not renewed since 2022, and to be readmitted to the playing field.
His suspension would expire in August, coinciding roughly with the end of the 2026 season at the Tour Championship from August 27-30. Koepka would be eligible for 2027 under PGA Tour’s new schedule compressing nearly two dozen $20 million events with limited elite fields—the perfect moment for his comeback. PGA Tour Enterprises investors would welcome having such a strong name back.
\”He might need some time, but I think he will return to the PGA Tour,\” said Jon Rahm recently in the ‘Subpar’ podcast. \”He might at least play the minimum, and why not play the tournaments he likes, the big ones? If he qualifies for more elite events, he’ll play those too.\” Perhaps the PGA will turn a blind eye for the five-time major winner—decisions on suspensions involve the board, player directors, and the Tiger Woods-led competition committee, following Rory McIlroy’s recommendation to let Koepka play immediately.