Smash GC captain Brooks Koepka was one of the biggest names to quit the PGA Tour in 2022 and sign up with the nascent LIV Golf circuit. Image courtesy LIV Golf.
By Rahul Banerji
Five-time major winner and Smash GC captain Brooks Koepka became the first big name to leave the LIV Golf ranks, saying the decision had been guided by “family needs”.
In a statement, his representatives said, ““Brooks Koepka will be stepping away from LIV Golf.
“He is deeply grateful to (PIF Governor and LIV mastermind) Yasir Al-Rumayyan, (LIV Golf CEO) Scott O’Neil, and the LIV Golf leadership team, his teammates, and the fans.
(LIV Golf is financed by the Public Investment Fund, the sovereign wealth fund of Saudi Arabia)
“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.”
New leader
Koepka, who has led Smash GC in the LIV Golf League from the time he signed up in 2022 for a reported fee of $100 million, will be replaced by team mate Talor Gooch, the 2023 individual champion.
Speculation immediately mounted that the 35-year-old, who signed up with the Saudi-backed league in 2022 was on his way back to the PGA Tour, for which he will be eligible from August next year.
The US-based circuit was careful in its response. “Brooks Koepka is a highly accomplished professional, and we wish him and his family continued success,” it said.
“The PGA Tour continues to offer the best professional golfers the most competitive, challenging and lucrative environment in which to pursue greatness.”
Since joining LIV, Koepka’s form has never ouched the levels he achieved while winning three PGA Championships and two US Opens. In a sense, therefore Wednesday’s announcement came as no real surprise.
Amicable parting
For its part, LIV said, “We have amicably and mutually agreed that Brooks Koepka will no longer compete in the LIV Golf League, following the 2025 season.
“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.
US golfer Talor Gooch will replace Brooks Koepka as captain of Smash GC in the Saudi-backed League. Image courtesy LIV Golf.
“Looking forward, Talor Gooch will take over as captain of Smash GC for the 2026 season. Talor is a world-class talent ready for this leadership role.
“His performance, including numerous individual victories and the 2023 LIV Golf Individual Championship, exemplifies the competitive excellence we champion.
“Talor’s proven track record as a golfer and his business acumen makes him the ideal player to lead Smash GC into the future.”
Guiding force
Added Gooch, “I want to start by thanking Brooks. He is one of the greatest competitors in the game and I have learned so much from him while being his teammate on Smash GC.
“He’s a friend and teammate, and I have great respect for his decision. I wish him, Jena, and their family all the best.
“Looking ahead, I am incredibly honoured and excited to officially take on the captaincy role for the 2026 season.
“I’m excited and ready to embrace this new leadership and career challenge. 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.”
Also read: Henni Zuël joins LIV Golf broadcast team ahead of 2026 season
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