First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh eager to compete again, Charley Hull soon launching a YouTube channel. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially opted out of the 2026 LIV Golf League season, which starts on February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner will remain connected to the competing circuit but needs more time for his family. This was reportedly agreed upon amicably, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. However, Koepka is known as a competitive type who gets highly motivated and fired up during top-level contests, something he found somewhat lacking on LIV. In 2022, he switched mainly for the financial security of his retirement after facing injury concerns. Therefore, skipping the final contracted season isn’t surprising, although questions remain: Did he have to buy out or refund part of his guaranteed fees? Is the 35-year-old still an owner of his LIV team Smash GC, which has appointed Talor Gooch as the new captain?
Speculation is growing about where Koepka will next tee off. The DP World Tour could grant him immediate playing eligibility, likely with a penalty fee. Or the PGA Tour, where he would serve a one-year suspension since his last LIV appearance, after former Commissioner Jay Monahan dramatically softened lifetime bans. There’s little incentive for vindictiveness if any LIV returnee, especially a star, benefits the tour with greater leverage. This key question seems partially answered: ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reports Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, which was not renewed after 2022, to rejoin the players’ ranks.