Brooks Koepka, the captain of Chase’s brother’s Smash GC team, was in need of advice going into the final round of competition in Jeddah since Chase Koepka is on the verge of getting demoted from the LIV Golf setup.
There is nothing Brooks Koepka can do to improve his prospects of staying in the LIV Golf, he has informed his younger brother and Smash GC partner Chase.
After a challenging 2023 season, Chase is one of many LIV players that could be demoted from the breakaway circuit. The 29-year-old was in the drop zone going into the final week of the regular season after only scoring one point all season.
The five-time major champion’s brother was counting on a strong showing in Jeddah this weekend, but he is currently tied for 44th place at two over par with 18 holes remaining.
In contrast, Brother Brooks is having another strong week on the course. He is currently in first place in Saudi Arabia at 12-under par, giving him a three-shot lead going into Sunday’s final round. With a flawless eight-under-par 62 on Saturday, he fought his way to the top and got closer to defending his LIV Jeddah title.
When asked about his brother’s completely opposite position on the leaderboard following his impressive second round performance, Brooks replied, “I mean, there’s nothing I can do.
The PGA champion went on to reveal that Chase had been going through a tough time with his game, but could not fault his effort. “I know he’s working hard,” he added. “I know he’s been trying. We’ve been practicing together quite a bit. Honestly, he’s struggling a little bit.
I was here. We’ve all been there. Every golfer has done it. That’s part of it. Look at him, he was playing a little round of golf 16 months ago. I don’t think the last year and a half has been too bad for him. » After a three-over 73 on Friday, Chase showed some improvement in the second round, shooting a under-par 69.
However, he will enter Sunday’s final round with an almost certain fate as one of LIV’s stars occupying the relegation spot. Chase’s hopes of competing on the breakaway tour will not be lost as he gets the chance to play in the Saudi-backed tournament’s 72-hole relegation playoff this winter.