LIV Golf stars commit to staying put after Brooks Koepka's departure, return to PGA Tour

Published: Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at 2:52 am

LIV Golf Stars Reaffirm Commitment Amidst Koepka's PGA Tour Return

Several prominent golfers who joined LIV Golf have publicly committed to remaining with the Saudi-backed league, despite the recent return of Brooks Koepka to the PGA Tour. Speaking at a preseason press conference, Bryson DeChambeau, Jon Rahm, and Cameron Smith all indicated their intention to continue playing for LIV Golf.

DeChambeau, who joined LIV in 2022, stated he is under contract and focused on the upcoming season. Smith, who also defected in 2022, emphasized his desire to spend more time at home and confirmed his commitment to LIV for the foreseeable future. Rahm, a high-profile addition to LIV in December 2023, echoed these sentiments, stating he is not planning to leave and is focused on the league and his team.

Koepka's decision to return to the PGA Tour was announced weeks prior. He cited a desire to be closer to home, spend more time with family, and his belief in the PGA Tour's new leadership and investment strategy. Koepka acknowledged the financial penalties associated with his return, including a five-year forfeiture of potential equity in the PGA Tour's Player Equity Program and a $5 million charitable donation. PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp confirmed Koepka's return and the conditions agreed upon.

Koepka's return has prompted the PGA Tour to establish a "Returning Member Program" for other players who may consider a similar move.

BNN's Perspective:

The contrasting decisions of Koepka and the other stars highlight the complex landscape of professional golf. While Koepka's return to the PGA Tour signals a potential shift, the continued commitment of players like DeChambeau, Rahm, and Smith suggests LIV Golf remains a viable and attractive option for many. The financial implications and personal considerations are clearly significant factors in these decisions, and the future of professional golf will likely depend on how these factors continue to evolve.

Keywords: LIV Golf, PGA Tour, Brooks Koepka, Bryson DeChambeau, Jon Rahm, Cameron Smith, Golf, Sports, Defection, Return, Player Equity Program, Brian Rolapp, Saudi-backed league

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