Brooks Koepka to Leave LIV Golf in 2026, Future in Golf Uncertain
Brooks Koepka, the five-time major champion, has announced he will depart LIV Golf after the 2026 season. At 35 years old, Koepka’s contract with LIV Golf runs through that year, but his playing future beyond 2026 remains uncertain despite having major championship status through 2028.
His exit from LIV Golf represents a significant blow to the emerging league and raises important questions for the PGA Tour regarding the reintegration of players returning from LIV and how the tour’s structure may evolve. The PGA Tour issued a statement touting its competitive and lucrative environment and noted that Tiger Woods’ competition committee will consider protocols for returning players ahead of the 2026 Masters.
Koepka is also eligible to compete in DP World Tour events in 2026, where he would be welcomed. However, his case highlights tensions surrounding potential penalties or optics for LIV players rejoining the PGA Tour, with some members advocating consequences while others see value in bringing top players back together for fans and sponsors.
This situation could become a key test of golf’s future, underscoring ongoing questions about the sport’s fragmented ecosystem and the possibility—though unlikely—of a merger between tours.
