In a major development for the world of professional golf, five-time major champion Brooks Koepka has confirmed he will be stepping away from the LIV Golf league in 2026.
Koepka's Major Announcement
The American star, who was one of the most high-profile defections from the established PGA Tour to the Saudi-backed breakaway circuit in 2022, made the significant announcement on 23 December 2025. His decision marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing saga between the rival tours and immediately fuels speculation about his future competitive path.
From PGA Tour to LIV and Beyond
Koepka built a formidable reputation on the PGA Tour, amassing multiple major championships and establishing himself as one of the sport's elite competitors. His move to LIV Golf in the summer of 2022 sent shockwaves through the sport, as he joined a growing list of top talent lured by the league's substantial financial incentives.
His impending departure in 2026 now raises a crucial question: where will the champion golfer compete next? While no formal statement has been made regarding his plans post-LIV, the natural assumption points towards a potential return to the PGA Tour framework, although other global tours or a limited schedule could also be possibilities.
Implications for the Golfing Landscape
Koepka's exit is a notable moment for LIV Golf, which has secured long-term contracts with many of its stars. Losing a player of his calibre and major-winning pedigree is a significant blow to the league's roster and its narrative of gathering the world's best.
The announcement comes amid persistent speculation and ongoing negotiations about a potential framework agreement or merger between the PGA Tour's commercial interests and the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia (PIF), which bankrolls LIV Golf. Koepka's 2026 move could be seen as a bellwether for other players considering their options as the golfing ecosystem continues to evolve.
For now, the golf world will watch closely for further developments. Koepka is expected to continue competing for LIV Golf throughout the 2025 season before his contract concludes.
