First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh eager for a comeback, Charley Hull soon launching on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season which begins on February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner remains connected to the rival circuit but wants more time for his family. This was reportedly amicably agreed upon, according to an official statement by LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka is a competitor who thrives in high-level contests, which he lacked somewhat at LIV. He switched in 2022 mainly due to injury concerns and to secure a substantial retirement fund. So giving up his final contracted season is not surprising, although questions remain about buyouts or repayments. He remains owner of LIV team Smash GC, recently captained by Talor Gooch.
Speculation is rife about where Koepka will compete next — on the DP World Tour where he would be immediately eligible, possibly paying a penalty, or the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension since his last LIV appearance following softened lifetime bans. Why hold grudges when any prominent LIV returnee benefits the stronger PGA Tour? ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership and be reinstated as a player.