The professional golf world has been shaken by the news that Brooks Koepka is officially leaving LIV Golf. The five-time major champion and the Saudi-backed league announced a mutual separation this week. This marks the first time a superstar of Koepka’s stature has voluntarily walked away from the controversial circuit. The decision brings an end to a high-profile partnership that began with a reported nine-figure contract in 2022.
In a statement released by his representatives, Koepka cited family priorities as the driving force behind his departure. The 35-year-old golfer recently navigated a difficult personal year following his wife Jena Sims’ public disclosure of a pregnancy loss. Koepka expressed a desire to stay closer to home and spend more time with his family and young son. Both LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil and Koepka’s team described the split as entirely amicable.
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Koepka was a cornerstone of LIV’s early success and legitimacy. During his tenure, he served as the captain of Smash GC and secured five tournament victories. He also became the first active LIV player to win a major championship at the 2023 PGA Championship. Despite these successes, rumors of “buyer’s remorse” had followed Koepka for months. Many analysts noted his deep desire to compete at the highest level of the sport regularly.
The path forward for the former world number one remains somewhat uncertain. Current PGA Tour regulations typically require defectors to wait one year before applying for reinstatement. Because Koepka’s last LIV event took place in August 2025, he may be ineligible for PGA Tour events until August 2026. However, the PGA Tour released a brief statement acknowledging his accomplishments and wishing him well. This has sparked intense speculation that a compromise or “loophole” could be found to bring him back sooner.
Fortunately for his fans, Koepka’s major championship eligibility remains secure for the immediate future. As a past champion of both the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship, he holds various exemptions through at least 2028. He is expected to compete in all four major tournaments during the 2026 season. Additionally, he may seek special status to play on the DP World Tour while he waits out his suspension from the American circuit.
LIV Golf has already moved to fill the leadership void left by his exit. Talor Gooch will take over the captaincy of Smash GC for the upcoming season. While the league continues to recruit new talent, losing its most iconic “alpha male” is an undeniable blow to its marketing efforts. For the broader golf community, Koepka’s exit may signal a shifting tide in the ongoing civil war between the rival tours. All eyes now turn to the 2026 Masters to see how the next chapter of his legendary career begins.
