Koepka announces departure from LIV Golf

Brooks Koepka, a five-time major champion, has left LIV Golf to prioritize “his family’s needs.”

The 35-year-old American won five events over four seasons before controversially leaving the PGA Tour to join the Saudi Arabian-backed series in 2022.

Brooks’ decisions have always been influenced by his family, and his family believes this is the ideal time to spend more time at home, according to a statement released on Tuesday from his representatives. “Brooks continues to be enthralled by the game of golf.”

Koepka’s contract reportedly had a year left, but LIV Golf’s CEO, Scott O’Neil, stated that his departure had been “amicably and mutually agreed.”

Koepka, who was born in Florida and has a young son, turned professional in 2012 and spent nine years competing on North America’s elite professional circuit.

In a statement, the PGA Tour also expressed gratitude to Koepka and “his family for continuing success,” adding that they “continue to provide the best professional golfers with the most competitive, challenging, and lucrative environment in which to pursue greatness.”

Koepka, a three-time US Open champion, has also won twice.

In a time when the sport appeared to be at war, his defection from the PGA Tour was viewed as a major coup for LIV, along with big names like Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, and Bryson DeChambeau.

Talor Gooch will now take over as Koepka’s LIV Golf team captain as the team prepares to face competition in February for the opening day of the 2026 season.

Koepka leaves LIV Golf as the first major player, but there has been much rumors about his future and a potential return to the PGA Tour.

Players who entered LIV Golf events were flag as unauthorised by the Tour and have since been suspended. Following their previous LIV event, non-members have been subject to a year-end ban.