Will LIV Golf earn OWGR points soon? Plus McIlroy’s ambitions, Donald’s thanks, Henseleit’s wedding and Couples’ new look.
Rory McIlroy has capped off what he calls the best year of his professional career, but the 36-year-old isn’t resting on his laurels. After being named Sports Personality of the Year, following a Masters win, completing the career Grand Slam, winning the Irish Open, and leading Europe to a Ryder Cup victory, McIlroy is already looking ahead. “I don’t know how I’ll top 2025, but I’ll try. There’s still so much more to achieve,” he said.
Among his goals: an eighth Race to Dubai title, which would tie Colin Montgomerie’s record. “I still feel I have a few good years ahead of me. Thankfully, I’ve stayed injury-free. And the drive to improve is still there.”
Just a day later, McIlroy was spotted ringside at the boxing match between Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul in Miami, where Paul suffered a double jaw fracture. Naturally, McIlroy was interviewed there as well.
OWGR and LIV Golf: ‘There Is a Chance’
LIV Golf is making another push for Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) recognition. Trevor Immelman, who chairs the OWGR board, revealed he’s in ongoing talks with LIV CEO Scott O’Neil. “We’re working closely to find a solution. I think there is a chance,” said Immelman. LIV plans to move to 72-hole events and expand its field size. “The OWGR is about meritocracy,” Immelman emphasized. “You have to earn your place and fight to keep it. That’s the message we’ve been conveying to LIV.”
Luke Donald Thanks Fans After Team of the Year Win
Golf had a big night at the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year awards. Rory McIlroy broke a decades-long drought for the sport by winning the top individual honor. Meanwhile, Luke Donald’s European Ryder Cup team was named Team of the Year for their away win at Bethpage Black. McIlroy lifted two trophies that night, joined by teammate Tommy Fleetwood. The rest of the squad chimed in via social media, including a heartfelt message from captain Donald.
More Headlines: Weddings, Style, and Sponsorships
Esther Henseleit tied the knot with fiancé and caddie Reece Phillips in South Tyrol, joined by fellow golfers Polly Mack, Sophia Popov, and Nanna Koerstz Madsen. Fred Couples, the 1992 Masters champion, has become the latest ambassador for trendy golf brand Malbon, joining Charley Hull and Jason Day.
Cadillac has been named title sponsor of the new PGA Tour Signature Event, the Cadillac Championship, to be held at Trump National Doral’s Blue Monster in 2026. The move reflects golf’s continued ties with Donald Trump’s course portfolio, despite resistance from The R&A regarding Turnberry.
In auction news, the iron set Tiger Woods used during