“What a Bomb Squad” – Fans React to Smash GC’s Brooks Koepka Replacement

Ankita Yadav

January 22, 2026 | 7:33 AM EST

“What a Bomb Squad” – Fans React to Smash GC’s Brooks Koepka Replacement — Brooks Koepka (Image via Imagn)

Fans on social media have reacted to Harold Varner III replacing Brooks Koepka in LIV Golf’s Smash GC. The American golfer has exited the league ahead of the start of the 2026 season.

Talor Gooch has replaced him as the captain of the team, while Varner III became a new member of the team. Nuclr Golf shared the news on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Wednesday with a caption:

“#NEW — Harold Varner III has officially joined Smash GC. Varner replaces Brooks Koepka and will join Captain Talor Gooch, Graeme McDowell and Jason Kokrak.”

Fans jumped into the comments section to share their opinions about it.

“What a bomb squad,” a fan wrote.

“Another move that will really move the needle!!! Come on already..” one more fan added.

“HV3!!! Boom!!!!” another fan added.

While some took a jibe at the LIV Golf team. Here are more fans’ reactions:

“Like changing a Ferrari to a Tesla,” a fan said.

“Wow that’s a major carisma vaccum!!” a fan wrote.

“We’re moving the needle with this move,” a fan said.

Brooks Koepka shares excitement to return to play on PGA Tour

Brooks Koepka is preparing to return to the PGA Tour through its new “Returning Member Program.” However, he is only eligible to play in the full-field events and The Players. He has to make his way to the signature events and is also not eligible for the player equity share for the next five years.

Koepka is preparing to play his first event on the PGA Tour after his return at the Farmers Insurance Open later this month. He shared his excitement for his return on the PGA Tour by sharing a heartfelt post on his X (formerly Twitter) account on January 13. He penned a long caption.

“I believe in where the PGA TOUR is headed with new leadership, new investors, and an equity program that gives players a meaningful ownership stake. I also understand there are financial penalties associated with this decision, and I accept those,” he wrote.

“Finally, I want to thank the fans. Your support means more to me today than ever before, and I look forward to seeing you soon at the Farmers Insurance Open and WM Phoenix Open,” he added.

Last season, aside from the LIV Golf, Brooks Koepka also played in the majors, but he struggled with his game and missed the cut in three events. He settled in a tie for 12th place at the US Open. Koepka is set to play at the Farmers Insurance Open, scheduled from January 29 to February 1 at the Torrey Pines golf course.

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