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 is far from satisfied. After being named BBC Sports Personality of the Year, following a season that included a Masters victory, a completed career Grand Slam, a win at the Irish Open, and a Ryder Cup triumph on foreign soil, McIlroy made it clear: he’s not done yet. “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? Winning the Race to Dubai for the eighth time, which would tie Colin Montgomerie’s record. “I’d love to try. I still feel like I have a few good years ahead. 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 he again spoke to media. Whether he’ll spend the holidays in Florida or at his new home in England’s Wentworth Estates remains unclear. What is certain: on January 2, he’ll debut with Boston Common in the second season of the TGL. McIlroy confirmed that Michael Thorbjornsen will join the team as a substitute for Adam Scott and Hideki Matsuyama, who will be in Australia and Japan respectively.
OWGR and LIV Golf: ‘There’s a chance’
LIV Golf is renewing its push for Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points. Trevor Immelman, chair of the OWGR board since April, revealed ongoing talks with LIV CEO Scott O’Neil. “Scott, our board, and I are 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. Immelman emphasized the importance of meritocracy in golf: “You earn your place on a tour and fight to keep it. That’s been a key part of my discussions with Scott.”
Team of the Year: Donald’s Gratitude
McIlroy wasn’t the only one honored at the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year awards. The European Ryder Cup team, led by Luke Donald, was named Team of the Year for their win at Bethpage Black. McIlroy accepted the award alongside teammate Tommy Fleetwood, while others joined virtually. Donald expressed his thanks on social media, representing the squad.