First start at the Farmers, Vijay Singh back in action, Charley Hull launching her own YouTube channel soon. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has withdrawn from the 2026 LIV Golf season starting February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more family time. This was reportedly agreed on amicably, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. Koepka, known as a competitor who thrives in high-level challenges, had limited motivation on LIV. He originally joined LIV in 2022 primarily due to injury concerns and wanting a substantial retirement sum for his personal pension fund. Thus, it is not surprising he forgoes the last contractual season, though questions remain: Did he buy out the contract or repay part of the guarantee? Does he remain owner of his LIV team Smash GC, with Talor Gooch now captain?
Speculation is growing on where Koepka will play next—DP World Tour with immediate eligibility (perhaps with a penalty), or PGA Tour where he faces a one-year suspension after his last LIV event, following former Commissioner Jay Monahan’s reduction of lifetime bans. Why retaliate sourly when every LIV returnee, especially a high-profile one, strengthens the established Tour? This seems partly answered: ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported Koepka formally requested reinstatement of his PGA Tour membership last Friday.