Will LIV Golf earn OWGR points soon? Plus McIlroy’s ambitions, Donald’s thanks, Henseleit’s wedding and Couples’ new look.
After a career-defining season in 2025, Rory McIlroy isn’t slowing down. The 36-year-old capped off the year with a Masters win, completing the career Grand Slam, an Irish Open title, and a Ryder Cup victory on foreign soil. Named BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year, McIlroy said: \”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’s eyeing an eighth Race to Dubai title to match Colin Montgomerie’s record. \”I still feel I have a few good years left. Thankfully, I’ve stayed injury-free. The drive to improve is still there.\”
Just a day later, McIlroy was spotted ringside in Miami at the Anthony Joshua vs. Jake Paul boxing match, where Paul suffered a double jaw fracture. McIlroy, ever the pro, took time to speak with media there as well.
OWGR and LIV Golf: A New Hope?
The LIV Golf League is renewing its push for Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) recognition. Trevor Immelman, chair of the OWGR board since April, confirmed 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 plans to shift to 72-hole events and expand its field. \”OWGR is a meritocracy. You earn your place and fight to keep it. That’s what makes golf special,\” Immelman emphasized, noting that helping LIV align with these values has been a key focus.
McIlroy and Team Europe Honored
McIlroy’s SPOTY win broke a long-standing drought for golf, the first since Nick Faldo in 1989. Adding to the celebration, Luke Donald’s Ryder Cup squad was named Team of the Year for their win at Bethpage Black. McIlroy accepted the team award alongside Tommy Fleetwood, while others joined virtually. Captain Donald shared his gratitude on social media.
More Back Nine Highlights
Esther Henseleit tied the knot with fiancé and caddie Reece Phillips in the scenic Seiser Alm, South Tyrol. Fellow golfers Polly Mack, Sophia Popov, and Nanna Koerstz Madsen were in attendance.
Fred Couples, aka \”Boom Boom Freddy,\” joined Malbon Golf as a brand ambassador, following Charley Hull and Jason Day. The 1992 Masters champ brings his cool swing to the streetwear scene.
The PGA Tour announced Cadillac as the title sponsor for the 2026 Cadillac Championship, a Signature Event to be held at Trump National Doral’s Blue Monster. The move highlights golf’s ongoing ties with Donald Trump’s course portfolio.
Meanwhile, Tiger Woods’ irons from his historic \”Tiger Slam\” fetched a record $5.1 million at auction. The clubs, used to win four consecutive majors across