LIV Golf CEO Scott O'Neil Confirms Brooks Koepka's 2026 Commitment, Uncertainty Looms for Future Beyond Next Season
In a recent interview with Sports Business Journal, LIV Golf CEO Scott O'Neil revealed that five-time major champion Brooks Koepka has signed on for the 2026 season. However, the future beyond next season remains uncertain, sparking speculation about Koepka's potential return to the PGA Tour.
Koepka's multi-year deal with LIV Golf is set to expire at the end of the 2025 season. Industry rumors suggest he might consider rejoining the PGA Tour, despite his current suspension. O'Neil's statement confirms Koepka's commitment for the next year but falls short of providing a definitive answer for the following season.
Koepka, along with Talor Gooch, Graeme McDowell, and Jason Kokrak, forms the Smash GC team. O'Neil's approach to player announcements is consistent with LIV Golf's policy, emphasizing transparency and individual player commitments.
Two-time major champion Dustin Johnson, captain of 4Aces GC, has extended his deal with LIV Golf. Negotiations are reportedly ongoing with Bryson DeChambeau, a two-time US Open champion and social media sensation, expected to remain with the Saudi-backed circuit in 2026. Koepka and DeChambeau reportedly signed deals worth around $125 million each, while Johnson's contract is rumored to be significantly higher, exceeding $200 million.
Superstar golfers like Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton, who signed multi-year deals with LIV Golf in 2024, are awaiting the outcome of their appeals against DP World Tour fines for joining LIV Golf. A recent development in the appeals process was announced last week.
Despite initial reports of substantial financial incentives from the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) to attract players, O'Neil suggests LIV Golf has a 'puncher's chance' of receiving Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points in 2026. The OWGR board has been in discussions with LIV Golf, but a definitive decision on point allocation remains pending.
The full interview, offering further insights into LIV Golf's strategy and player dynamics, is available for readers to explore.
