First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh making a comeback, Charley Hull launching on YouTube soon. 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As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion will remain connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for family. This was amicably agreed upon, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka, known to be a competitor who thrives on high-level competition, seemed less motivated in LIV, having joined in 2022 mainly due to injury concerns and to secure retirement funds. Questions remain if he had to buy out his contract or return part of his guaranteed pay, and if he still owns his LIV team Smash GC, with Talor Gooch now captain.
Speculations abound where Koepka will play next – DP World Tour, where he would be immediately eligible, possibly with a penalty? Or the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension after his last LIV appearance, since the former lifetime bans by ex-Commissioner Jay Monahan were substantially eased? Why hold grudges when LIV returnees, especially prominent ones, benefit the stronger Tour? This key question has been partially answered: ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed post-2022.