First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh eager to compete again, Charley Hull to launch YouTube channel soon. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has opted out of the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more family time. This was reportedly agreed upon amicably, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. However, Koepka is known as a competitor who thrives on high-level competition, something LIV Golf offered only limited motivation. He initially joined LIV in 2022 partly due to injury concerns about his career and to secure a solid retirement fund. The decision to forgo the last contractual season is therefore understandable, though questions remain, such as if he had to buy out his contract or return part of his guaranteed salary. He also remains an owner of the LIV team Smash GC, which has named Talor Gooch as its new captain.
Speculation grows about where Koepka will compete next. The DP World Tour would welcome him immediately, perhaps with a penalty fee. The PGA Tour, where he would face a one-year suspension after his last LIV start (following a reduction of previous lifetime bans), is another option. The PGA Tour’s softened stance allows a prominent LIV returnee to strengthen the established Tour. Journalist Mark Schlabach reported Koepka formally submitted an application last Friday to reinstate his PGA Tour membership, which had lapsed after 2022, aiming to rejoin the players’ circle.