LIV Golf seeks OWGR points, McIlroy sets new goals, Donald thanks fans, and Couples joins Malbon. The Back Nine.
Rory McIlroy capped off what he called the best year of his professional career with a Masters victory, completing the career Grand Slam, winning the Irish Open, and leading Europe to a Ryder Cup win on foreign soil. Yet, the 36-year-old isn’t resting on his laurels. \”I don’t know what I’ll do in 2026 to top this, but I’ll try. There’s still a lot more to achieve,\” McIlroy said after being named BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year. He also mentioned targeting an eighth Race to Dubai title to match Colin Montgomerie’s record. \”I still feel I have a few good years left. Thankfully, I’ve stayed injury-free, and the drive to improve is still there.\”
Just a day later, McIlroy was spotted ringside in Miami at the Anthony Joshua vs. Jake Paul boxing match, where he also made media rounds.
OWGR and LIV Golf: “There’s a Chance”
The LIV Golf League is making renewed efforts to gain recognition from the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR). Trevor Immelman, who chairs the OWGR board, revealed ongoing discussions with LIV CEO Scott O’Neil. \”We’re working closely to find a solution. I think there’s a chance,\” said Immelman. LIV plans to move to 72-hole events and expand its field, aligning more closely with OWGR standards. \”Golf is a meritocracy. You earn your place and fight to keep it. That’s been a key part of our talks,\” Immelman added.
Donald’s Thanks After Team of the Year Win
McIlroy’s SPOTY win broke a long-standing golf drought since Nick Faldo’s 1989 honor. Adding to the celebration, Luke Donald’s Ryder Cup squad was named Team of the Year for their triumph at Bethpage Black. McIlroy accepted the award alongside teammate Tommy Fleetwood, while others joined virtually. Captain Donald shared his gratitude on social media.
More Headlines: Weddings, Fashion, and Big Deals
Esther Henseleit tied the knot with her caddie and fiancé Reece Phillips in the Italian Alps, joined by fellow golfers Polly Mack, Sophia Popov, and Nanna Koerstz Madsen. Meanwhile, Fred Couples became the latest ambassador for trendy golf brand Malbon, joining Charley Hull and Jason Day.
In a major announcement, Cadillac returns as title sponsor for a new PGA Tour Signature Event at Trump National Doral’s Blue Monster in 2026. The move marks another high-profile tournament at a Trump-owned venue, following the DP World Tour’s Irish Open at Doonbeg.
In auction news, Tiger Woods’ irons from his historic Tiger Slam fetched a staggering $5.1 million. The clubs, used during his 2000–2001 Major streak, remain a symbol of golfing excellence.
And finally, Royal Liverpool made headlines with a controlled detonation of a WWII grenade found on the course—just