THE FUSE

Five-time major champion Brooks Koepka has left LIV Golf to prioritise "the needs of his family".

The 35-year-old American controversially quit the PGA Tour to join the Saudi Arabian-backed series in 2022 and won five events over four seasons.

"Family has always guided Brooks' decisions, and he feels this is the right moment to spend more time at home," read a statement from his representatives on Tuesday. "Brooks remains passionate about the game of golf."

Koepka reportedly had one year remaining on his contract, but LIV Golf chief executive Scott O'Neil said his departure had been "amicably and mutually agreed".

"We appreciate the significant impact he has had on the game and wish him continued success, both on and off the course," added O'Neil.

Florida-born Koepka, who is married and has a young son, turned professional in 2012 and won nine PGA Tour events during his nine seasons on North America's elite professional circuit.

The PGA Tour also wished Koepka and "his family continued success" in a statement, before adding they "continue to offer the best professional golfers the most competitive, challenging and lucrative environment in which to pursue greatness".

A three-time US PGA champion, Koepka, has also twice triumphed at the US Open.

His defection from the PGA Tour, along with big names such as Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson and Bryson DeChambeau, was seen as a major coup for LIV during a period when the sport appeared to be at civil war.

Koepka's captaincy of the LIV Golf team, Smash, will now pass to Talor Gooch, with the side having an opening to fill for the start of the 2026 season in February.

Koepka becomes the first star player to leave LIV Golf, however, there has been speculation over his future for months and a possible return to the PGA Tour.

The Tour has suspended players who competed in LIV Golf events after categorising them as unauthorised. Non-members have been subject to a year ban following their previous LIV event.

Koepka will also be eligible to join the DP World Tour and have exemptions to compete in golf's four major championships.