Will LIV Golf earn OWGR points soon? Plus McIlroy’s ambitions, Donald’s thanks, Henseleit’s wedding and Couples’ new look.
Rory McIlroy capped off a phenomenal 2025 season by being named BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year. But the 36-year-old isn’t resting on his laurels. “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, referencing his Masters win, career Grand Slam completion, Irish Open victory, and Ryder Cup triumph. One goal: tying Colin Montgomerie’s record with an eighth Race to Dubai title. “I still feel like I’ve got a few good years left. Thankfully, I’ve stayed injury-free so far. 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. Naturally, McIlroy was again in the spotlight.
Whether McIlroy will spend the holidays in Florida or at his new home in England’s Wentworth Estates remains unclear. What is certain: he’ll debut with Boston Common in the second season of the Tomorrow’s Golf League (TGL) on January 2. McIlroy confirmed the addition of 24-year-old American pro Michael Thorbjornsen as a substitute for the team, which includes Keegan Bradley, Adam Scott, and Hideki Matsuyama. “Hideki will be in Japan and Adam in Australia, so Michael will join Keegan and me for our first match.”
OWGR and LIV Golf: ‘There’s a Chance’
The LIV Golf League is renewing efforts to gain 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. I think there’s a chance,” said Immelman. LIV plans to switch to 72-hole events and expand its field. “The OWGR is about meritocracy—you earn your place and fight to keep it. That’s been a key part of our discussions with LIV.”
Team of the Year: Donald’s Gratitude
McIlroy wasn’t the only golf winner at the SPOTY awards. Luke Donald’s European Ryder Cup team was named Team of the Year for their away win at Bethpage Black. McIlroy lifted a second trophy that night, joined by teammate Tommy Fleetwood. The rest of the team chimed in via social media, with captain Donald expressing heartfelt thanks.