First start already at Farmers, Vijay Singh is back on the PGA Tour, Charley Hull launches YouTube channel. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf League season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner stays connected to the rival circuit but needs more family time. This was mutually agreed upon, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. However, Koepka, a competitive type who thrives in top-level contests, showed limited motivation in LIV. He switched in 2022 primarily because of injury concerns and to secure a good retirement payout. Thus, skipping the final contracted season is not surprising, though questions remain about buyouts and his continued ownership of the LIV team Smash GC, now captained by Talor Gooch.
Speculation centers on where Koepka will compete next. Possibly on the DP World Tour, where he would have immediate playing rights, perhaps with penalties. Or on the PGA Tour, where he must serve a one-year suspension following his last LIV appearance, after lifetime bans by ex-commissioner Jay Monahan were eased. It seems the PGA Tour is open to LIV returnees, especially prominent ones like Koepka. ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership and rejoin the player ranks, despite not renewing post-2022.