Will LIV Golf earn OWGR points? Plus McIlroy’s ambitions, Donald’s thanks, Henseleit’s wedding and Couples’ new look.
Rory McIlroy capped off what he called the best year of his professional career 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 how I’ll top 2025, but I’ll try. There’s still a lot more to achieve,” he declared after a season that included a Masters win to complete the career Grand Slam, victory at the Irish Open, and a Ryder Cup triumph on away soil.
McIlroy now has his sights set on an eighth Race to Dubai title, which would tie Colin Montgomerie’s record. “I still feel like I have 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 in Miami at the Anthony Joshua vs. Jake Paul fight, where he also shared his thoughts with the media.
McIlroy and TGL: New Season, New Faces
McIlroy is set to return to action on January 2 with Boston Common in the second season of the Tomorrow’s Golf League (TGL). He confirmed that 24-year-old American pro Michael Thorbjornsen will join the team as a substitute for Hideki Matsuyama and Adam Scott, who will be in Japan and Australia respectively. “Michael will step in alongside Keegan [Bradley] and me,” McIlroy said.
OWGR and LIV Golf: A Glimmer of Hope
The LIV Golf League is making renewed efforts to gain recognition from the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR). Trevor Immelman, who chairs the OWGR board, revealed he’s in ongoing talks with LIV CEO Scott O’Neil. “We’re working closely to find a solution. I think there’s a chance,” Immelman said. LIV is reportedly moving to 72-hole events and expanding its field, aligning more closely with OWGR standards. “Golf is a meritocracy,” Immelman emphasized. “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 and McIlroy Honored
In addition to his individual accolade, McIlroy celebrated with Team Europe, which was named Team of the Year for their Ryder Cup win at Bethpage Black. Luke Donald, the team captain, expressed his gratitude on social media, while McIlroy accepted the award alongside teammate Tommy Fleetwood.