By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Photo Credit: Chris Trotman/LIV Golf .
Brooks Koepka, the five-time major champion, has become the first player to defect from LIV Golf and raises questions whether the PGA Tour will find a way for him to return.
Koepka will be stepping away from LIV Golf, “a statement from Koepka’s representatives read.
“He is deeply grateful to Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Scott O’Neil, and the LIV Golf leadership team, his teammates, and the fans. Family has always guided Brooks’s decisions, and he feels this is the right moment to spend more time at home.
“Brooks 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.”
Koepka joined the Saudi-backed golf tour in 2022, joining the likes of Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Bryson DeChambeau and other stars who defected from the PGA Tour.
“We have amicably and mutually agreed that Brooks Koepka will no longer compete in the LIV Golf League, following the 2025 season, “LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neill said in a statement.
“Brooks is prioritising the needs of his family and staying closer to home. We appreciate the significant impact he has had on the game and wish him continued success, both on and off the course.”
Before leaving the PGA Tour for LIV, Koepka was one of the top golfers in the world, winning four majors and spending 44 total weeks as the No. 1-ranked golfer at various points from 2018-20.