First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh back on the course, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
Expected: Brooks Koepka has officially opted out of the 2026 LIV Golf season beginning February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner remains connected to the competing circuit but needs more family time. This was reportedly amicably agreed upon, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka is a competitor who thrives on high-level competition and motivation, which LIV has not fully provided. Originally switching in 2022 mainly due to injuries threatening his career and to secure a considerable retirement fund, Koepka’s choice to skip the final contracted season is not surprising, though questions remain regarding potential buyouts or repayment of guaranteed money. He continues to own the LIV team Smash GC, now captained by Talor Gooch.
Speculations abound about where Koepka will play next. The DP World Tour grants immediate eligibility, possibly with penalties. The PGA Tour imposed a one-year suspension after Koepka’s last LIV appearance, softened from a lifetime ban under former Commissioner Jay Monahan. This raises the question of his return to the PGA Tour, especially since recent policies favor LIV returnees to strengthen their tour. According to ESPN’s Mark Schlabach, Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed after 2022.