It appears that all hopes of a reconciliation between Brooks Koepka and Matthew Wolff, members of LIV Golf, have evaporated. The comments made by Koepka on Wednesday prior to the season’s finale of LIV Golf’s team championship, indicate a final closing of doors in their relationship.
Koepka’s Brutal Honesty
Residing in Jupiter like Wolff, Koepka has never held back when speaking about his teammate. His latest remarks on Wednesday reiterated his stance. Despite Wolff’s continued association with Koepka’s LIV team, and an upcoming foursomes event where Wolff will partner with Brooks’ brother, Chase, the interaction between Brooks and Wolff is limited.
Brooks expressed his efforts to assist Wolff and his ultimate realization that it was time to stop. In his words, “Sometimes you can’t help people that don’t want help.”
The Team Dynamic
Koepka leads team Smash, which includes his brother, Wolff, and Jason Kokrak. In July, Koepka expressed his concerns regarding Wolff’s work ethic and attitude, suggesting that Wolff’s talent was going to waste. This came after Wolff decided not to participate in a LIV event near Washington, D.C.
While celebrating his win at the LIV event in Jeddah, Koepka made a comment about the composition of his team, implying that it consisted only of himself, Chase, and Kokrak. Now, it appears that Brooks Koepka is on the hunt for two new members for his team for the 2024 season.
Matthew Wolff’s Struggles
Despite the discord, Matthew Wolff, aged 24, continues to be open about his struggles with mental health. He has admitted to having difficulty even getting out of bed and attending tournaments for fear of failing in front of everyone.
Wolff expressed how the pressure of performing in a professional setting was challenging. Transitioning from junior and college golf where he won almost every game to playing against the world’s best was a difficult adjustment.
However, Wolff acknowledges that the team format in LIV has helped alleviate some of the pressure he experienced in the PGA Tour. He feels that LIV has provided him with a supportive environment and a team to rely on.
Koepka’s Cold Remarks
Koepka’s harsh comments seem to amplify the struggles of Wolff, who is dealing with personal issues. The public disparagement of a teammate who has had personal struggles seems unwarranted, regardless of any off-course incidents.
Brooks Koepka’s Successful Season
Regardless of the outcome of the team championship, Koepka has had an impressive season across all platforms. He secured his fifth career major at the PGA Championship, finished as the runner-up at the Masters, and was the only LIV golfer to participate in the Ryder Cup.
He also won his second LIV tour this season at Jeddah along with three other top 5 finishes. Koepka, who recently became a father, has earned $17.5 million in prize money from LIV. This includes a $4 million bonus for finishing third in the individual standings.
With his recent success, Koepka feels that he is back to his old self, ready to face whatever the future holds.
By: Tom D’Angelo
Title: Brooks Koepka’s Insights on Teammate Matthew Wolff: A Bridge Burned
Sourced From: golfweek.usatoday.com/2023/10/18/brooks-koepka-liv-golf-teammate-matthew-wolff/
Published Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2023 21:19:21 +0000
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