Brooks Koepka leaves Bryson DeChambeau 'shocked' by departing from LIV Golf

Brooks Koepka’s decision to leave LIV Golf came as a surprise including to fellow LIV golfer Bryson DeChambeau. The five-time major winner’s exit marks the first time a marquee player has stepped away from the Saudi-backed league, creating a major talking point during the offseason.

DeChambeau reacted to the news while speaking to Tom Hobbs of Flushing It Golf admitting Koepka’s departure was unexpected.

“I think that can happen, but you never know. Life throws curve balls and, obviously, we saw what happened today and that was quite a shock to a lot of people,” DeChambeau said. “People make decisions for whatever their needs and wants are and, ultimately, you have to respect it and move on.”

Koepka left LIV Golf to focus on his family, according to a statement from his representatives. The 35-year-old American joined LIV in 2022 after leaving the PGA Tour and went on to win 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," the statement read, while adding that Koepka remains fully committed to the sport. (via BBC Sports)

With his departure, Koepka is now eligible to play on the DP World Tour and still has exemptions to compete in all four major championships. His exit also means LIV Golf will need to strengthen its roster.

Meanwhile, Bryson DeChambeau appears set to stay with LIV Golf. He is under contract through the end of 2026 and recently indicated that talks over an early contract extension are progressing.

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Bryson DeChambeau addresses ongoing LIV Golf contract renewal

Bryson DeChambeau has confirmed that discussions are underway regarding a possible contract extension with LIV Golf but he did not say how close the two sides are to reaching a deal.

Speaking to Flushing It Golf, the 32-year-old acknowledged the talks but kept his comments brief.

“Obviously, people know that I’m talking to LIV about extending. And we’ll see how that goes. But I’m very excited to see what can come about if alignments occur,” DeChambeau said.

Bryson DeChambeau left the PGA Tour in 2022 and signed a five year deal with LIV Golf reportedly worth over $100 million. His current contract runs through the end of the 2026 season.

Reports in October suggested that he had already begun renegotiating his deal ahead of the next LIV season. The 2025 LIV Golf season has now ended, with the league set to return from February 5 to 7, 2026 at Riyadh Golf Club.

DeChambeau has earlier spoken about feeling positive about the negotiations. In comments shared by ESPN he said both sides see value in continuing their partnership.

“We’re looking to negotiate at the end of this year, and I am very excited. They see value in me, I see the value in what they can provide, and I believe we’ll come to some sort of resolution on that. Super excited for the future. I would love to help. I think I've got some good ideas.”

The American played in 13 events during the 2025 season. While his future is still being finalized, Bryson DeChambeau made it clear that he remains positive about what lies ahead.

Edited by Sonali Verma