Veteran sports journalist Rex Hoggard believes the LIV Golf tour could face significant challenges if Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka decide to exit the breakaway league.
Both athletes’ contracts with the Saudi Arabia-backed organization will run out at the end of the 2026 season.
These major winners transitioned from the PGA Tour to LIV in 2022, signing deals reportedly exceeding $100 million. However, recent discussions indicate uncertainty regarding their futures.
Reports suggest that DeChambeau is committed to LIV and eager for the organization’s future and expansion, although he may be looking for an even larger signing bonus than previously received.
DeChambeau, a two-time U.S. Open champion, garnered attention for his dynamic persona on the PGA Tour. His recent ventures into content creation and achieving a second major victory have increased his popularity substantially, now boasting over four million followers across social media and millions of views on his YouTube channel. Consequently, LIV Golf is highly motivated to retain him.
Regarding Koepka, Sports Business Journal has reported that he is considering skipping LIV’s 14-event season in 2026 due to dissatisfaction. He previously acknowledged that he joined LIV primarily for financial reasons amid career-threatening injuries. Reports suggest he might forgo participation despite still being under contract, although LIV’s CEO has stated that Koepka is signed for 2026.
Hoggard warns that if both Koepka and DeChambeau choose to leave after 2026, it could spell significant trouble for LIV Golf. He speculates that Koepka’s discontent might serve as a negotiating tactic, with a ripple effect on other players considering their options. As the 2026 season approaches, LIV is likely keen to secure DeChambeau, as losing him could mark the end of the LIV Golf operation.
