First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh is back, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major winner will remain connected to the competing circuit but needs more family time. This was reportedly agreed upon amicably, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka is known as a competitor who thrives on high-level contests, which he experienced only partially in LIV. He switched in 2022 primarily because of injury concerns and to secure a solid retirement fund, so skipping the last contracted season is not surprising, though questions remain about financial settlements and his ownership status of LIV team Smash GC, now captained by Talor Gooch.
Speculation abounds about which fairways Koepka will play next. DP World Tour would grant immediate eligibility, possibly with a penalty, or PGA Tour where he must serve a one-year suspension after his last LIV appearance due to softened lifetime bans previously issued. Why be vindictive when returning LIV players, especially high-profile ones, benefit the PGA Tour? ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported Koepka formally applied last Friday to reactivate his PGA Tour membership and rejoin the player pool.
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