Smash skipper Brooks Koepka is leaving LIV Golf for family reasons

Smash GC captain Brooks Koepka was one of the biggest names to leave the PGA Tour in 2022 and join the emerging LIV Golf circuit. Image courtesy of LIV Golf.

By Rahul Banerji

Five-time major winner and Smash GC captain Brooks Koepka became the first big name to leave LIV Golf’s ranks, saying the decision was driven by “family needs.”

In a statement, his representatives said: “Brooks Koepka will distance himself 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, Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund)

“Family has always guided Brooks’ decisions, and he feels this is the right time to spend more time at home. Brooks will remain a strong 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 lies ahead.”

New leader

Koepka, who has led Smash GC in the LIV Golf League since signing in 2022 for a reported $100 million fee, will be replaced by teammate Talor Gooch, the 2023 individual champion.

There was immediate speculation that the 35-year-old, who joined 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 American circuit reacted cautiously. “Brooks Koepka is a very talented professional and we wish him and his family the best of luck,” the statement said.

“The PGA Tour continues to provide the best professional golfers with the most competitive, challenging and lucrative environment in which to pursue greatness.”

Since joining LIV, Koepka’s form has never reached the level he reached when he won three PGA Championships and two US Opens. In a sense, Wednesday’s announcement didn’t come as a real surprise.

Amicable farewell

For its part, LIV said: “We have amicably and mutually agreed that Brooks Koepka will no longer compete in the LIV Golf League after the 2025 season.

“Brooks is prioritizing 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 court.

American golfer Talor Gooch will replace Brooks Koepka as captain of Smash GC in the Saudi-backed league. Image courtesy of LIV Golf.

“Looking ahead, Talor Gooch will take over as captain of Smash GC for the 2026 season. Talor is a world-class talent who is ready for this leadership role.

“His achievements, including numerous individual victories and the 2023 LIV Golf Individual Championship, exemplify the competitive excellence we stand for.

“Talor’s proven track record as a golfer and his business acumen make him the ideal player to lead Smash GC into the future.”

Guiding force

Gooch added: “I want to start by thanking Brooks. He is one of the greatest competitors in the game and I learned so much from him when I was his teammate in Smash GC.

“He is 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 honored and excited to officially assume the captaincy role for the 2026 season.

“I am excited and ready to embrace this new leadership and career challenge. I am eager to build on the competitive standard Brooks has set 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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