Will LIV Golf earn OWGR points soon? Plus McIlroy’s drive, Donald’s thanks, Henseleit’s wedding and Couples’ new style.
Rory McIlroy capped off what he called the best year of his career with the prestigious BBC Sports Personality of the Year award. 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, following a season that included a Masters win to complete the career Grand Slam, a victory at the Irish Open, and a Ryder Cup win on away soil. One goal? Matching 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 at the boxing match between Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul in Miami, where he again shared his thoughts with the media.
OWGR and LIV: ‘There is a chance’
The LIV Golf League is renewing 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,” said Immelman. LIV plans to switch to 72-hole events and expand its field size. Immelman emphasized the OWGR’s merit-based structure: “You have to earn and fight for your place on a tour. That’s been a key part of our conversations with LIV.”
Luke Donald and Team of the Year
McIlroy’s SPOTY win also coincided with Team Europe being named Team of the Year for their Ryder Cup triumph at Bethpage Black. Luke Donald’s squad received the honor, with McIlroy and teammate Tommy Fleetwood accepting the award in person. Donald shared his gratitude on social media, representing the rest of the team who joined virtually.
More from the Back Nine
Esther Henseleit tied the knot with fiancé and caddie Reece Phillips in the Italian Alps, joined by fellow pros Polly Mack, Sophia Popov, and Nanna Koerstz Madsen. Fred Couples became the latest ambassador for trendy golf brand Malbon, joining Charley Hull and Jason Day. Meanwhile, the PGA Tour announced Cadillac as title sponsor for the 2026 Cadillac Championship at Trump National Doral, a move that continues golf’s alignment with Trump properties. And in memorabilia news, the irons used by Tiger Woods during his legendary Tiger Slam sold for $5.1 million, with impressive wear marks on the sweet spots. Finally, Royal Liverpool saw a controlled detonation of a WWII grenade found on the course—just another day in golf history.