First start already at the Farmers, Vijay Singh eager for another go, Charley Hull soon on YouTube. The Back Nine.
As expected, Brooks Koepka has officially withdrawn from the LIV Golf League for the 2026 season starting on February 7 in Riyadh; the five-time major champion remains connected to the rival circuit but needs more time for his family. This was amicably agreed upon, according to LIV CEO Scott McNeil’s official statement. However, Koepka is known as a competitive type who gets highly motivated during top-level competition, something he found limited at LIV. He switched to LIV in 2022 mainly because injury concerns made him doubt his career longevity and he wanted a solid retirement fund. Given this background, his skipping the last contracted season is not surprising, but questions remain: Did he have to buy out or repay part of his guaranteed salary? Does the 35-year-old remain owner of his LIV team Smash GC, which has appointed Talor Gooch as new captain?
Speculation abounds about where Koepka will next compete. On the DP World Tour, where he would be immediately eligible to play – possibly after a penalty payment? Or on the PGA Tour, where he must serve a one-year suspension since his last LIV appearance, after former commissioner Jay Monahan drastically softened lifetime bans? Why be vindictive when every returning LIV player, especially a prominent one like Koepka, ultimately benefits the PGA Tour that holds the stronger leverage? This critical question now seems partly answered. ESPN journalist Mark Schlabach reported Koepka formally submitted an application last Friday to reinstate his PGA Tour membership and be readmitted to the players’ circle, after letting his membership lapse post-2022.