Talor Gooch will take over as captain of Smash GC after Brooks Koepka announced he will not return to the LIV Golf League for the 2026 season, the league said in a statement on Tuesday.[3]

The change follows an announcement from LIV Golf League CEO Scott O’Neil that Koepka, a five-time major champion and a foundational figure for Smash GC, will leave the circuit to spend more time with his family and remain closer to home. O’Neil said the decision was made “amicably and mutually,” and thanked Koepka for his impact on the game.[3]

Gooch: gratitude and ambition

In his reaction to the captaincy change, Talor Gooch expressed gratitude to Koepka and conveyed his ambition for Smash GC going forward. Gooch thanked Koepka for his mentorship and said he had great respect for Koepka’s decision, extending best wishes to Koepka and his family.[3]

Gooch, an accomplished competitor on the LIV circuit and the 2023 LIV Golf Individual Champion, has a track record of strong performances that make him a logical choice to lead Smash GC. After winning multiple events in 2023 and securing consistent top-10 finishes in subsequent seasons, Gooch joined Smash GC and helped the team toward improved results, including a tie for second place in Las Vegas that contributed to a team victory and a top-10 individual finish in 2024.[1][2]

Context within Smash GC and LIV Golf

Smash GC, co-founded with prominent players including Brooks Koepka, has positioned itself as one of LIV Golf’s headline teams, combining high-profile talent with strong team ambitions.[1] Gooch’s elevation to captain continues a pattern within LIV Golf of players moving between teams and taking on leadership roles as the league evolves.[2]

According to LIV Golf’s roster and player profiles, Gooch has been a frequent contender on the circuit and continued to produce strong results through 2025, including a victory at LIV Golf Andalucia and multiple top finishes that year.[1][2]

Reactions and implications

LIV Golf’s official statement emphasized a cordial separation with Koepka and highlighted his contributions to the league and Smash GC specifically.[3] The move relieves Koepka of professional obligations as he focuses on family priorities, while positioning Gooch to guide Smash GC’s competitive and strategic direction in upcoming seasons.[3]

For Smash GC, naming a proven performer and recent event winner as captain signals continuity in competitive ambition. Gooch’s history of winning and his familiarity with the team’s roster are likely to shape Smash GC’s strategy in team events and player development moving forward.[1][2]

Looking ahead

As Gooch assumes captaincy, attention will turn to how Smash GC adapts under his leadership and whether the team can translate his individual success into sustained team results in the LIV Golf schedule. Observers will also watch whether Koepka’s departure prompts further roster or leadership changes across the league.[1][2][3]