{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/680a0159fcccdba3a5365c3e/694de600cb029db757e0eeab?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"KOEPKA’S LIV EXIT & THE TOUR’S INSTANT REPLY - December 26th, 2025","description":"<p>We break down the fallout of Brooks Koepka’s shock departure from LIV Golf, the PGA Tour’s calculated response, and the changing of the guard at Smash GC.</p><p><br></p><h3>THE RETURN OF BROOKS</h3><ul><li>Brooks Koepka is officially leaving LIV after the 2025 season, but the real story is the PGA Tour’s lightning-fast 23-minute statement—a sign that CEO Brian Rolapp likely has the welcome mat ready despite the sit-out policy.</li><li>Hank Haney didn’t mince words on the impact, calling the loss of the five-time major winner an \"impossible to sugarcoat\" blow to the rebel league’s credibility.</li><li>On the home front, Jena Sims took to Instagram to poll fans on gift wrapping, a subtle signal that the Koepka family is looking to settle back into a \"normal\" life in Jupiter.</li></ul><p><br></p><h3>NEWS &amp; NOTES</h3><ul><li>Talor Gooch has been named the 2026 Captain of Smash GC, raising valid questions about whether his elite ball-striking can replace Koepka’s massive commercial appeal for the franchise.</li><li>The golf world mourns two significant losses: Japanese legend Masashi \"Jumbo\" Ozaki at 78, and the tragic passing of Jake Knapp’s girlfriend, Makena White.</li><li>Charles Barkley reveals he is addicted to the grind—playing seven days a week—and relies on a specific swing thought from Justin Thomas: \"Tee the ball low and squeeze down.\"</li></ul><p><br></p><h3>Quick Hits</h3><p>Wesley Bryan’s awkward Christmas card • Jon Rahm’s snowy shorts • TGL Opener (Dec 28)</p>","author_name":"Golf.ai"}