Brooks Koepka 1st player to defect from LIV Golf, but will PGA Tour take him back?

Five-time major champion Brooks Koepka became the first player to defect from LIV Golf, a significant blow to the Saudi-funded league that raises questions whether the PGA Tour will find a way for him to return.

LIV Golf posted an announcement to its website under a statement that Talor Gooch is the new captain of the Smash team Koepka had led.

Scott O'Neil, the new CEO of LIV, said Koepka and LIV "amicably and mutually agreed" Koepka will no longer compete in the league.

"Brooks is prioritizing the needs of his family and staying closer to home," O'Neil said. "We appreciate the significant impact he has had on the game and wish him continued success, both on and off the course."

LIV does not disclose contracts, though it was believed Koepka had another year left from when he joined in June 2022.

The PGA Tour policy banning players who have joined the rival league requires them to sit out for one year from their last participation. LIV ended its season on Aug. 24.

Koepka began his career on the European tour and would have access to play there. He played four European tour events this year, finishing fourth in the French Open a week before the Ryder Cup. He played in the 2023 Ryder Cup, but was not a consideration this year because of his form.

Blake Smith, Koepka's manager at Hambric Sports, said there would be no comment beyond a statement released through LIV Golf that Koepka is grateful for his time at LIV.

"Family has always guided Brooks's decisions, and he feels this is the right moment to spend more time at home," the statement said. "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