Brooks Koepka leaves LIV Golf, eyes PGA return

Five-time major champion Brooks Koepka has officially left LIV Golf, becoming the first player to defect from the Saudi-backed league. The announcement marks a pivotal moment in professional golf and raises questions about whether Koepka can return to the PGA Tour.

LIV Golf confirmed that Talor Gooch will take over as captain of the Smash team previously led by Koepka. Scott O’Neil, LIV’s CEO, said the departure was “amicable and mutually agreed,” citing Koepka’s desire to prioritize family and stay closer to home.

“Brooks is prioritizing the needs of his family and staying closer to home,” O’Neil said. “We appreciate the significant impact he has had on the game and wish him continued success, both on and off the course.

Implications of Brooks Koepka LIV departure

Koepka, who joined LIV Golf in June 2022, reportedly had one year remaining on his contract, though LIV does not publicly disclose financial details. PGA Tour rules require players leaving LIV Golf to sit out for one year from their last participation before rejoining. LIV concluded its 2025 season on August 24, meaning Koepka may soon be eligible for PGA competition.

Koepka’s manager, Blake Smith of Hambric Sports, emphasized the family-centered reasoning behind the move. “Family has always guided Brooks’s decisions, and he feels this is the right moment to spend more time at home,” the statement said. “Brooks will continue to be a huge supporter of LIV Golf and wishes the league and its players continued success.

Brooks Koepka LIV history and PGA future

Before joining LIV Golf, Koepka had a successful career on both the PGA and European Tours. In 2025, he played four European Tour events, including a fourth-place finish at the French Open just before the Ryder Cup. While he participated in the 2023 Ryder Cup, his form prevented consideration for this year’s team.

The PGA Tour issued a brief statement acknowledging Koepka’s exit from LIV Golf: “Brooks Koepka is a highly accomplished professional, and we wish him and his family continued success. The PGA Tour continues to offer the best professional golfers the most competitive, challenging and lucrative environment in which to pursue greatness.”

Koepka reportedly informed the PGA Tour of his plans prior to LIV’s announcement. To return, he must reapply for PGA membership. Notably, Koepka was not part of the antitrust lawsuit filed against the PGA Tour by other LIV players in 2022.

Fan and industry reaction

Brooks Koepka LIV departure has generated widespread discussion among golf fans and analysts, highlighting both the influence of family considerations and the ongoing tension between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour. While the next steps for Koepka remain uncertain, his move signals potential shifts in player movement and league dynamics in professional golf.

Golf insiders anticipate that Koepka’s decision could set a precedent for other players weighing the benefits of LIV participation against the opportunities on the PGA Tour.