First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh back in action, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially opted out of the LIV Golf League for the 2026 season, which begins on February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner will remain connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for his family. This was reportedly agreed upon amicably, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka is a competitive type who thrives on high-level competition, something he lacked at LIV. He initially joined the Saudi-backed league in 2022 due to injury concerns threatening his career and an opportunity to secure a solid retirement fund. Thus, skipping the final contractual season is not surprising, though questions remain, such as whether he had to buy out or repay part of his guaranteed salary, and if he remains an owner of his LIV team Smash GC, already appointing Talor Gooch as captain.
The big speculation revolves around where Koepka will next play. On the DP World Tour, where he would be immediately eligible, likely with a penalty? Or on the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension since his last LIV appearance, though previous lifetime bans imposed by former commissioner Jay Monahan have been considerably reduced? Why hold grudges when every returning LIV player, especially someone as prominent as Koepka, benefits the dominant touring circuit that already holds the upper hand? This key question seems partially answered. According to ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed after 2022, and to be reinstated as a player.