Five-time major champion Brooks Koepka won’t compete with LIV Golf in the 2026 season, announcing in a statement on Tuesday, Dec. 23 that he is forgoing the final year on his contract with the PGA Tour competitor to spend more time with his family.
Koepka, 35, is leaving LIV Golf ‘amicably,’ according to CEO Scott O’Neil. Koepka offered his thanks to ‘Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Scott O’Neil, and the LIV Golf leadership team’ via a statement from his representatives.
LIV Golf has already announced a successor for Koepka as the captain of Smash GC for the 2026 LIV season.
It is currently unclear if Koepka will participate in any major tournaments in 2026. That said, Koepka’s representatives stated that Koepka will continue to be a ‘huge supporter of LIV Golf and wishes the league and its players continued success. Brooks remains passionate about the game of golf and will keep fans updated on what’s ahead.’
Who is taking over as Smash GC captain for Koepka?
Talor Gooch, 34, will take over as team captain in Koepka’s absence. In a statement, Gooch said he was ‘incredibly honored’ to be named captain.
‘I’m eager to build on the competitive standard Brooks established and work with our players to lead this team into this next successful chapter,’ Gooch said.
Gooch has enjoyed success with LIV Golf, tallying numerous victories in the league including the 2023 LIV Golf Individual Championship.
Brooks Koepka’s career with LIV
Koepka enjoyed a star-studded career with LIV Golf, becoming the first player in the league to win five individual tournaments. Koepka also became the first golfer to win a major tournament while under contract with LIV Golf, winning the PGA Championship in 2023.
Brooks Koepka’s family
Koepka is stepping away to spend more time with his family. Koepka and his wife, Jena Sims, welcomed their first child, Crew Sims Koepka, in August 2023.