Five-time major winner Brooks Koepka has made the decision to part ways with LIV Golf, dealing a significant blow to the Saudi-backed league. This move has raised questions regarding the possibility of Koepka returning to the PGA Tour in the future.
LIV Golf made the announcement on its website, revealing that Talor Gooch will now lead the Smash team previously captained by Koepka. The new CEO of LIV, Scott O’Neil, stated that Koepka and the league reached a mutual agreement for him to exit, citing his focus on family and staying closer to home.
Although the details of Koepka’s contract with LIV were not disclosed, it was believed that he had one year remaining from his initial agreement in June 2022. As per PGA Tour regulations, players who have joined a rival league must sit out for a year following their last participation. With LIV’s season ending on Aug. 24, this timeline would apply to Koepka.
Koepka, who started his career on the European tour, has the option to compete there. Despite having played in four European tour events this year and participating in the 2023 Ryder Cup, his current form did not make him a contender for this year’s Ryder Cup team.
In response to Koepka’s departure, his management at Hambric Sports, represented by Blake Smith, expressed gratitude for Koepka’s time at LIV. Emphasizing Koepka’s family-oriented decisions, the statement highlighted his ongoing support for LIV Golf and his dedication to the sport.
While the PGA Tour acknowledged Koepka’s move, they commended his achievements and wished him continued success. The tour reiterated its commitment to providing a competitive and rewarding platform for top golfers to excel.
Koepka had informed the PGA Tour of his intentions before the official announcement by LIV. To potentially rejoin the PGA Tour, he would need to reapply for membership. Notably, Koepka was not part of the group of LIV players involved in the antitrust lawsuit against the PGA Tour in 2022.
Having spent significant time as the world’s top-ranked player, Koepka was a marquee signing for LIV at its launch in 2022. Despite winning five times on the LIV Golf circuit, his performance in 2025 was modest, with only two top-10 finishes and a 31st place in the overall standings.
Koepka’s departure from LIV Golf leaves Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm as the standout stars in the league, alongside players like Tyrrell Hatton. The future of Koepka’s spot in the league and how he will be replaced remain undisclosed by LIV.
Looking ahead, LIV Golf is preparing for its 2026 season, commencing in February in Saudi Arabia. With only two players confirmed for the upcoming season, the league is gearing up for a “promotions” tournament in January to select additional participants. Additionally, LIV is awaiting approval to integrate its circuit into the Official World Golf Ranking system, with selection processes being a key consideration in this decision-making process.