First start already at the Farmers; Vijay Singh also eager, 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As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion remains connected to the competing circuit but needs more time for family. This was amicably agreed upon, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka is known as a competitor who thrives on top-level competition, which he found limited in LIV. He joined LIV in 2022 primarily due to injuries that made him consider ending his career while securing a lucrative retirement fund. Thus, skipping the final contractual season is not surprising, though questions remain—did he have to buy out his contract or repay part of his guaranteed earnings? Does the 35-year-old remain owner of his LIV team Smash GC, which has named Talor Gooch as its new captain?
Most speculation focuses on where Koepka will play next. The DP World Tour would grant immediate playing rights, possibly with a penalty; the PGA Tour, however, imposed a one-year suspension following his last LIV event, after lifetime bans by former Commissioner Jay Monahan were significantly reduced. It makes little sense to act vindictive, especially when every returning LIV player benefits the PGA Tour. This key question seems partially answered. According to ESPN reporter Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed after 2022, and to return to the tour’s playing membership.