Will LIV earn OWGR points soon? Plus McIlroy’s ambitions, Donald’s gratitude, Henseleit’s wedding and Couples’ new look.
Rory McIlroy capped off a career-defining year with the prestigious BBC Sports Personality of the Year award, but the Northern Irishman is far from satisfied. \”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,\” said the 36-year-old, who in 2025 completed the career Grand Slam with a Masters win, triumphed at the Irish Open, and helped Team Europe win the Ryder Cup on U.S. soil. One goal on his radar: an eighth Race to Dubai title to tie Colin Montgomerie’s Order of Merit record. \”I still feel I have a few good years ahead. Thankfully, I’ve stayed injury-free. The drive to improve is still there.\”
Just a day later, McIlroy was spotted ringside at the Anthony Joshua vs. Jake Paul boxing match in Miami. He also confirmed the addition of Michael Thorbjornsen to his TGL team Boston Common, stepping in for Adam Scott and Hideki Matsuyama, who will be abroad when the season kicks off January 2.
OWGR and LIV Golf: “There’s a Chance”
LIV Golf has renewed efforts to gain recognition from the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR). Trevor Immelman, chair of the OWGR board since April, revealed ongoing discussions with LIV CEO Scott O’Neil. “We’re working closely to find a solution. I think there’s a chance,” Immelman said. LIV’s move to 72-hole events and plans to expand their field are seen as steps toward compliance. “OWGR is about meritocracy. You earn your place and fight to keep it. That’s been a key part of my talks with Scott.”
Team of the Year: Donald’s Gratitude
McIlroy wasn’t the only one honored at the SPOTY awards. Team Europe, captained by Luke Donald, was named Team of the Year for their Ryder Cup win at Bethpage Black. McIlroy accepted the award alongside teammate Tommy Fleetwood, while others joined virtually. Donald shared his appreciation on social media, thanking fans and players alike for the recognition.
More Headlines: Weddings, Fashion, and Auctions
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. Meanwhile, Fred Couples became the latest ambassador for trendy golfwear brand Malbon, joining Charley Hull and Jason Day.
In PGA Tour news, Cadillac was announced as the title sponsor for the 2026 Cadillac Championship at Trump National Doral’s Blue Monster. The move adds another high-profile event to Trump’s golf portfolio, though The R&A still resists awarding The Open to Trump’s Turnberry.
On the auction front, Tiger Woods’ irons from his Tiger Slam fetched a record $5.1 million. The clubs, used