Five-time major champion Brooks Koepka has decided to part ways with LIV Golf, dealing a significant blow to the Saudi-funded league. This move has raised questions about the potential for Koepka to rejoin the PGA Tour in the future.
LIV Golf confirmed the news by announcing on its website that Talor Gooch would take over as the new captain of the Smash team previously led by Koepka. Scott O’Neil, the new CEO of LIV, stated that Koepka and LIV reached a mutual agreement for him to step away from competing in the league. O’Neil mentioned that Koepka is focusing on his family and staying closer to home, and expressed gratitude for the impact Koepka had on the game.
Although specific contract details are not disclosed by LIV, it was believed that Koepka had one more year left in his contract when he joined in June 2022. According to PGA Tour regulations, players who have joined a rival league must sit out for one year from their last participation. With LIV’s season ending on August 24, Koepka may be able to consider playing on the European tour, where he has competed in four events this year.
Koepka’s manager, Blake Smith, stated that Koepka appreciates his time at LIV and is prioritizing spending more time with his family. The PGA Tour acknowledged Koepka’s departure, highlighting his accomplishments and wishing him continued success. Koepka, a former world No. 1 player, was a prominent signing for LIV in 2022 despite facing challenges with injuries and expressing some regrets about joining the league.
Koepka’s exit from LIV leaves Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm as the league’s major attractions, along with other notable players like Tyrrell Hatton. LIV has not disclosed how Koepka will be replaced but has announced signings for the upcoming season and is awaiting approval to be included in the Official World Golf Ranking system.
