Brooks Koepka is a five-time major champion
Five-time major champion Brooks Koepka has announced his departure from LIV Golf, citing a desire to prioritize “the needs of his family.”
The 35-year-old American, who controversially left the PGA Tour to join the Saudi Arabian-backed series in 2022, accumulated five event victories over four seasons.
“Family has always guided Brooks’ decisions, and he feels this is the right moment to spend more time at home,” representatives stated on Tuesday. “Brooks remains passionate about the game of golf.”
Koepka reportedly had one year remaining on his contract. LIV Golf chief executive Scott O’Neil indicated the departure was “amicably and mutually agreed upon.”
“We appreciate the significant impact he has had on the game and wish him continued success, both on and off the course,” O’Neil added.
Koepka, a Florida native who is married with a young son, turned professional in 2012 and secured nine PGA Tour victories during his nine seasons on the elite North American circuit.
The PGA Tour released a statement wishing Koepka and “his family continued success,” while affirming their commitment to “offer the best professional golfers the most competitive, challenging and lucrative environment in which to pursue greatness.”
A three-time US PGA champion, Koepka has also claimed two US Open titles.
His move from the PGA Tour, alongside prominent figures like Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, and Bryson DeChambeau, was considered a major achievement for LIV during a period of division within the sport.
Koepka’s captaincy of the LIV Golf team, Smash, will now be assumed by Talor Gooch. The team will have a vacancy to fill before the start of the 2026 season in February.
Koepka is the first high-profile player to exit LIV Golf. Speculation surrounding his future and a potential return to the PGA Tour has been circulating for months.
The PGA Tour has suspended players who participated in LIV Golf events, classifying them as unauthorized. Non-members face a one-year ban following their last LIV event.
Koepka will also be eligible to join the DP World Tour and receive exemptions to compete in golf’s four major championships.
Earlier this week, Chilean golfer Mito Pereira announced his retirement from the sport at age 30, following three seasons with LIV.
Koepka’s departure marks a significant development, as he is the first major champion to leave the lucrative breakaway league.
Since winning the 2023 US PGA Championship, the five-time major champion has experienced a decline in form. His relationship with LIV always seemed lukewarm, with him rarely promoting the Saudi Arabia-backed venture in the same manner as many other recruits.
The unfolding events will be closely watched. As it stands, he will not be eligible to compete on the PGA Tour until August, marking one year since his last LIV appearance.
However, the possibility remains that rules could be adjusted for one of the game’s most recognizable figures, a move that would likely generate considerable controversy.
An alternative path could involve the Europe-based DP World Tour, an organization with which the American player has historically maintained a strong connection.