First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh eager to compete again, Charley Hull to launch YouTube soon. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has formally withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season, set to start February 7 in Riyadh. The five-time major winner remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more family time. This amicable agreement was stated by LIV CEO Scott McNeil, though many remain skeptical. Koepka is a competitive type who thrives in high-level competition, which he has rarely found at LIV. Back in 2022, Koepka joined LIV mainly due to injury concerns threatening his career and to secure a profitable retirement fund. Thus, skipping the last contracted season is less surprising, although questions persist: Did he buy out his contract or repay part of his guaranteed salary? Does the 35-year-old remain owner of the LIV team Smash GC, with Talor Gooch now captain?
Speculation is growing about where Koepka will next appear. DP World Tour could grant immediate playing rights, possibly with a penalty. Alternatively, the PGA Tour enforces a one-year ban from Koepka’s last LIV event, softened after former commissioner Jay Monahan eased lifetime suspensions. Why be vindictive when welcoming high-profile LIV returnees suits the established PGA Tour? ESPN reporter Mark Schlabach revealed Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which lapsed post-2022, aiming for reinstatement.