Report: Brooks Koepka retains Graeme McDowell for 2026 LIV Golf season

Brooks Koepka has decided to retain Graeme McDowell on his LIV Golf team for the 2026 campaign, according to a report. 

McDowell did enough to avoid relegation on the PIF-backed league this season, finishing 34th in the individual standings. 

But his final position also meant that he finished in the 'Open Zone' and was vulnerable to being replaced by the five-time major champion. 

LIV Golf's offseason opened last week and teams are now eligible to trade players and make new signings. 

Explained:

• LIV Golf's offseason

According to bunkered, McDowell has agreed a contract extension and will represent the Smash quartet in 2026. 

Smash currently comprises of Koepka, Jason Kokrak and Talor Gooch. 

"Obviously I felt like I played okay this season and certainly held my own," McDowell told the publication. "Certainly lots of room for improvement, more consistency.

"But, you know, I'm 46, I'll be 47 next year. I still feel competitive. When I'm not competitive anymore, you know, I'll walk away and give somebody else that spot.

"At the minute, I still feel like I’m good enough to be out there and good enough to be out on any tour."

McDowell also outlined his aspirations to be the European Ryder Cup captain in 2027. 

The matches will head to Adare Manor in Ireland and McDowell will have always had the date pencilled in his calendar. 

McDowell said that it's unlikely Justin Rose will want to succeed Luke Donald as the Englishman will still want to be playing. 

Donald still hasn't revealed whether he will lead Europe for the third time in a row. 

LIV Golf confirm rule change

Elsewhere, the International Series have announced the leading two players will be exempt on LIV Golf in 2026. 

Since 2022, the 10-event series, which is played under the banner of the Asian Tour, has offered only one golden ticket to LIV Golf. 

It is thought the latest change to LIV's feeder circuit will bolster their bid for world ranking accreditation. 

LIV re-applied for Official World Golf Ranking points before The Masters. 

The governing body has not announced its decision yet. 

Former OWGR chairman Peter Dawson recently expressed his regret that he could not resolve the situation before he retired last year.