First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh is back, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially opted out of the LIV Golf 2026 season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more family time. This was reportedly agreed amicably, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka is known as a competitor who thrives on top-level contests, which was limited at LIV. In 2022, he joined LIV largely due to injury concerns and to secure a substantial retirement fund. Thus, skipping the last contracted season raises questions: Did he buy out his contract or repay a part of his guaranteed salary? Will the 35-year-old remain an owner of LIV team Smash GC, now led by Talor Gooch?
Speculation has arisen about where Koepka will play next. Will it be on the DP World Tour, where he could play immediately, possibly paying a penalty? Or the PGA Tour, where he had a one-year suspension after his last LIV appearance, though lifetime bans enforced by former Commissioner Jay Monahan have been relaxed? It seems the major question is partially answered. ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reports Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, seeking reinstatement into the player ranks after not renewing post-2022.
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