Brooks Koepka will no longer compete in LIV Golf so he can prioritize the needs of his family and stay closer to home.
The American was one of the players featured on the Saudi-backed tour when the league was controversially launched in 2022, and had one year left on his current contract.
While captaining Smash GC, Koepka won five trophies, including individual and team titles.
“Mr. Koepka is deeply grateful to Yasir Al Rumayan, Scott O’Neill, the LIV Golf leadership team, his teammates and fans,” Koepka’s representative said in a statement.
Brooks Koepka was part of the first group of players to join the league in 2022
“While his family has always guided Brooks’ decisions, he feels now is the perfect time to spend more time at home.
“Brooks continues 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 continue to keep fans updated on the future.”
Gooch appointed as new captain
Taylor Gooch becomes new captain of Smash GC
With Koepka’s retirement, Taylor Gooch will become Smash GC’s captain for the 2026 season.
After joining the league in its first season in 2022, he won a number of individual titles in LIV Golf in 2023.
“I want to start by thanking Brooks,” Gooch said. “He is one of the greatest competitors in the game and I learned a lot from him while I was his teammate at Smash GC.
“He is a friend and teammate and I have the utmost respect for his decision. I wish him, Jena and their family all the best.”
“Looking to the future, I am honored and excited to officially assume the role of captain for the 2026 season.
“I am excited and ready to embrace this new leadership and career challenge. I look forward to building on the standard of competitiveness established by Brooks and working with the players to lead the team to its next chapter of success.”
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