Will LIV Golf earn OWGR points? Plus McIlroy’s award, Henseleit’s wedding, and Fred Couples’ new fashion.
Rory McIlroy capped off a stellar 2025 season by being named BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year, but the 36-year-old isn’t resting on his laurels. With a Masters victory completing his career Grand Slam, a win at the Irish Open, and a triumphant Ryder Cup in enemy territory, McIlroy is already looking ahead. “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: tying Colin Montgomerie’s record with an eighth Race to Dubai title. “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 appeared ringside in Miami at the boxing match between Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul, where Paul suffered a double jaw fracture.
McIlroy and TGL: New Season, New Teammate
McIlroy is set to debut with Boston Common in the second season of Tomorrow’s Golf League (TGL) on January 2. He confirmed the addition of 24-year-old American pro Michael Thorbjornsen as a backup for the team, which includes Keegan Bradley, Adam Scott, and Hideki Matsuyama. “Hideki will be in Japan and Adam in Australia when we play our first match, so Michael will join Keegan and me,” McIlroy explained.
OWGR and LIV Golf: ‘There’s a Chance’
LIV Golf is making another push for recognition in 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,” said Immelman. LIV plans to move to 72-hole events and expand its field. “The OWGR is about meritocracy. You have to earn your place and fight to keep it. That’s been a key part of our talks,” he added.
Team of the Year: Donald’s Ryder Cup Squad Honored
McIlroy wasn’t the only one honored at the SPOTY awards. Luke Donald’s European Ryder Cup team, victorious at Bethpage Black, was named Team of the Year. McIlroy accepted the award alongside teammate Tommy Fleetwood, while others joined via social media. Captain Donald expressed his gratitude in a video message.