The Psychology of Brooks Leaving LIV - January 2nd, 2026

On this Thursday, January 2nd, we analyze the psychological drivers behind Koepka’s LIV departure, revisit Tiger’s insane prime fitness routine, and discuss Shane Lowry’s raw admission about body image.

THE BROOKS & BRYSON DYNAMIC

• Smylie Kaufman theorizes that Koepka left LIV because he craves the "friction" of elite competition, contrasting him with Bryson DeChambeau, who flourishes as the "center of gravity" in an entertainment-first format.
• Quote: Brooks requires "friction" to thrive; Bryson needs to be the show.
• The Human Angle: Jena Sims’ emotional Instagram post highlights their family’s need for stability and peace after a tragic year.

TIGER TURNS 50

• We celebrate the Big 5-0 by looking back at Tiger’s prime daily torture: running eight miles, lifting heavy, and playing other sports—a stark contrast to his current modest goal of simply playing again.
• The Regimen: 4-mile run (morning) + Lift + Tennis/Basketball + 4-mile run (evening).
• Fun Fact: Even at 50, he’s still plugged in, sending fresh Sun Day Red gear to LSU coach Lane Kiffin.

TOUR STRUGGLES & STATS

• Shane Lowry gets raw in the *Irish Times* about dropping 14kg and fighting body insecurity, while we analyze Nelly Korda’s winless-but-consistent 2025 and the industry calls for "Caitlin Clark" levels of marketing.
• The Stat: Lowry is down from 114kg to 100kg; Korda made 19 of 19 cuts in 2025.
• The Defense: Jason Day defends Korda’s game on *The Lads*, citing a lack of visibility rather than skill.

Quick Hits

Trump Admin terminates National Links Trust lease in D.C. • Michael Thorbjornsen debuts for Boston Common Golf • Rory McIlroy’s alternate life in sports science

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