Smash GC is playing its first LIV Golf event without Brooks Koepka, but his ex-teammates aren’t missing him much. His former teammate Jason Kokrak feels that the replacements, like Charles Howell III and Harold Varner III are getting along well.
Kokrak and other LIV stars are at Riyadh Golf Club for LIV Golf Riyadh, which began on Wednesday, February 4. Following the second round the Smash GC was at the top of the leaderboard at 30-under with a three-stroke lead.
On Thursday, February 5, during the post-round interview, Kokrak got candid about the experience with new members in the group.
“Yeah, I think it’s great,” he said. “I think all four of us get along. Talor has been a great captain so far. Leads by example. Obviously with HV3 on the team, it’s a whole vibe in itself, but wonderful guy. G-Mac is one of my closest friends. I think the four of us are going to have a lot of fun this year.”
For the uninitiated, Brooks Koepka surprised everyone by deciding to quit LIV Golf, citing personal reasons. Within a few weeks, he made a big move by returning to the PGA Tour under its strict pathway-back conditions. This week, he is in action at the WM Phoenix Open for the second event of his season.
How did Brooks Koepka’s ex-teammates perform at the LIV Golf Riyadh 2026, Round 2?
Brooks Koepka’s former LIV Golf teammates are having a decent week, as the players are in strong positions after two rounds. Talor Gooch took the 36-hole joint lead after firing a second straight 67. The Smash GC captain is tied alongside Peter Uihlein and Thomas Detry at 10-under.
Jason Kokrak fired a low 64 to aggregate at 9-under and finish one stroke back after two rounds. Harold Varner III carded a 71 and is at T21, while Charles Howell III shot a 66 to tie for 36th.
Here’s a look at the leaderboard for the LIV Golf Riyadh 2026 after two rounds:
T1. Talor Gooch: -10
T1. Peter Uihlein: -10
T1. Thomas Detry: -10
T4. Jon Rahm: -9
T4. Sebastian Muñoz: -9
T4. Jason Kokrak: -9
T4. Elvis Smylie: -9
T8. Sergio Garcia: -8
T8. David Puig: -8
T10. Byeong Hun An: -7
T10. Yosuke Asaji: -7
T10. Abraham Ancer: -7
T10. Joaquin Niemann: -7
T14. Louis Oosthuizen: -6
T14. Marc Leishman: -6
T14. Thomas Pieters: -6
T14. Scott Vincent: -6
T14. Caleb Surratt: -6
T14. Adrian Meronk: -6
T14. Graeme McDowell: -6
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