Ten new faces on the PGA Tour, Kai Trump’s LPGA debut, Fleetwood’s UAE academy, and Tiger Woods back in public. The Back Nine.
Rory McIlroy capped off a stellar 2025 season with his seventh Harry Vardon Trophy, despite a narrow playoff loss at the DP World Tour Championship. The Northern Irishman had already claimed wins at the Masters, Players Championship, Irish Open, and Pebble Beach Pro-Am, not to mention a victorious Ryder Cup campaign. “Ten out of ten,” said McIlroy, rating his season.
What’s left for the five-time major winner? A home Open win at Portrush and a return to World No. 1 would be nice, but fans and pundits alike are now calling for a knighthood. With a career Grand Slam completed in Augusta and a Ryder Cup win in Bethpage Black, many believe McIlroy has earned a visit to King Charles III. After all, Sir Nick Faldo received the honor in 2009 for arguably less.
“If that ever happens, it would be an incredible honor,” McIlroy said. For now, he’s more focused on where to store his latest trophy in his new home in Wentworth Estates. “I like to display my trophies, but in places that aren’t too flashy—so they’re in the basement,” he said. “We probably spent more time picking the color of Poppy’s bedroom than deciding where to put them.”
New Faces on the PGA Tour
Ten players earned PGA Tour cards through the DP World Tour’s season standings. Leading the group is England’s Marco Penge, a three-time winner this year. Also joining is former LIV Golf player Laurie Canter, highlighting the fluidity between tours.
Kai Trump’s Promising LPGA Debut
Kai Trump, granddaughter of Donald Trump, made her LPGA debut at The Annika. Despite missing the cut, the 18-year-old amateur improved from an opening 83 to a second-round 75. Her performance included four birdies and nearly an ace, showing promise for the future.
Tiger Woods Returns to Public Eye
Following back surgery in October, Tiger Woods made a public appearance at a Bridgestone event alongside Fred Couples and Matt Kuchar. While not listed for the upcoming PNC Championship, Woods was later seen supporting son Charlie at a high school state championship, which The Benjamin School won—thanks in part to Charlie’s stellar play.