LIV Golf eyes OWGR points, McIlroy eyes more titles, and Fred Couples joins Malbon. The Back Nine.
Rory McIlroy has capped off a career-defining year with the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year award, but the 36-year-old insists he’s far from satisfied. With a Masters win completing his career Grand Slam, an Irish Open victory, and a triumphant Ryder Cup abroad, McIlroy is already looking ahead. \”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,\” he said. One goal? Matching Colin Montgomerie’s record with an eighth Race to Dubai title. \”I still feel like I have a few good years left. Knock on wood, I’ve stayed injury-free. And the drive to improve is still there.\”
Just a day later, McIlroy was spotted ringside at the Anthony Joshua vs. Jake Paul fight in Miami, where Paul suffered a double jaw fracture. McIlroy, of course, was happy to chat with media there as well.
OWGR and LIV Golf: A New Hope?
LIV Golf is making another push for Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points. Trevor Immelman, chair of the OWGR board since April, confirmed ongoing talks with LIV CEO Scott O’Neil. \”We’re working closely to find a solution. And I think there’s a chance,\” Immelman said. LIV plans to shift to 72-hole events and expand its field size. Immelman emphasized the merit-based nature of the OWGR system: \”You have to earn your place and fight to keep it. That’s what makes our sport special.\”
Team of the Year: Donald and McIlroy Honored
McIlroy wasn’t the only one recognized at the SPOTY awards. Luke Donald’s Ryder Cup squad was named Team of the Year for their away win at Bethpage Black. McIlroy accepted the trophy alongside teammate Tommy Fleetwood, while others joined virtually. Donald shared his gratitude on social media, representing the team’s appreciation.
Fred Couples Joins Malbon
Fred \”Boom Boom Freddy\” Couples, the 1992 Masters champion known for his smooth swing, is the latest ambassador for trendy golf brand Malbon, joining Charley Hull and Jason Day. A perfect match of cool style and golf legacy?
Cadillac Returns as PGA Tour Sponsor
The PGA Tour has announced Cadillac as the title sponsor for the new Signature Event, the Cadillac Championship, to be held April 27–May 3, 2026, at Trump National Doral’s Blue Monster. The move marks a return for Cadillac and further embeds Trump-owned courses into elite golf calendars. Meanwhile, the R&A continues to resist awarding The Open to Trump’s Turnberry.
Tiger Slam Irons Sell for $5.1 Million
Tiger Woods’ irons from his historic Tiger Slam—winning all four majors consecutively across 2000–2001—have sold for a record $5.1 million. The clubs, complete with visible wear marks,