Brandel Chamblee has responded to news that Brooks Koepka has quit LIV Golf. 

Brandel Chamblee: How LIV golfers should be punished for return

A statement issued by LIV Golf this evening confirmed that the five-time major champion has left the league, with Talor Gooch assuming the captaincy of Smash GC.

“We have amicably and mutually agreed that Brooks Koepka will no longer compete in the LIV Golf League, following the 2025 season,” said LIV CEO Scott O’Neil

“Brooks is prioritising the needs of his family and staying closer to home. We appreciate the significant impact he has had on the game and wish him continued success, both on and off the course.”

Koepka’s representatives confirmed the news, adding: “Family has always guided Brooks’s decisions, and he feels this is the right moment to spend more time at home. 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 keep fans updated on what’s ahead.”

The wording of the statement announcing his departure – citing a desire to spend more time at home – would imply he would favour a return to the PGA Tour. He currently lives in Florida with his wife Jena and their son Crew.

However, like all PGA Tour members who joined LIV, Koepka is currently serving a suspension from the US-based circuit for his defection.

In a statement of its own, the PGA Tour said: “Brooks Koepka is a highly accomplished professional, and we wish him and his family continued success. The PGA Tour continues to offer the best professional golfers the most competitive, challenging and lucrative environment in which to pursue greatness.”

Shortly after the news broke, Golf Channel analyst Chamblee took to X to share his thoughts on the shock news.

A long-time critic of LIV, he has called for the PGA Tour to find a way to reintegrate Koepka – assuming, of course, that’s what the former world No.1 wants.

“Time has elevated the PGA Tour for what it is,” wrote Chamblee. “The most competitive, legitimate and profitable tour in the world. Time has exposed the LIV tour for what it is, an ephemeral, flamboyant make-believe tour that can neither further the professional game nor the careers of the players who sacrificed their principles for profit in playing for the Saudis.

“My guess is those who have a path back will seek it with their hat in their hands, trying to hide the money in their pockets.

“The PGA Tour should make it difficult but doable for these players for the betterment of the PGA Tour and to the detriment of the LIV Tour.”