First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh eager to compete again, Charley Hull launching a YouTube channel soon. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season, which begins on February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion will remain connected to the competing circuit but needs more time for his family. This was amicably agreed upon, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka, known for his competitive spirit, thrives in high-level competition, something he found limited with LIV. His 2022 move to LIV was largely due to injury concerns and securing a solid retirement fund. His decision not to play the final contracted season raises questions: did he have to buy out his contract or repay guarantees? Will he remain owner of LIV team Smash GC, which appointed Talor Gooch as its new captain?
The bigger speculation concerns where Koepka will compete next. On the DP World Tour, where he would immediately be eligible, possibly with a penalty? Or on the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension after his last LIV appearance, though previous lifetime bans imposed by former commissioner Jay Monahan have been significantly softened? Why be vindictive when every returning LIV player ultimately benefits the established tour? This key question appears partially answered. According to ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not extended after 2022, seeking re-entry to the player pool.