First start at the Farmers, Vijay Singh back on the PGA Tour, Charley Hull launching YouTube channel soon. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the LIV Golf League for the 2026 season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion is staying connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for his family. This amicable agreement was officially stated by LIV CEO Scott McNeil. Koepka is a competitor who thrives on high-level competition, something he lacked on LIV. He initially joined LIV in 2022 mainly because of injury concerns and to secure a solid retirement fund. His choice to forgo the last contractual season raises questions: Did he buy out of his contract or refund part of the guaranteed money? He remains owner of the LIV team Smash GC, recently appointing Talor Gooch as the new captain.
Speculation is rampant about which tours Koepka will join next. He would be immediately eligible for the DP World Tour, likely with a penalty, or he may return to the PGA Tour, where he faces a one-year suspension since his last LIV appearance after the lifetime bans imposed by former commissioner Jay Monahan were significantly softened. Why retaliate when prominent LIV returnees bolster the PGA Tour, which holds the upper hand? ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported Koepka officially applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership, ending his absence since 2022.