Will LIV Golf earn OWGR points soon? Plus McIlroy’s ambitions, Donald’s thanks, and Couples’ new fashion. The Back Nine.
Rory McIlroy capped off a career-defining year with a Masters win, completing the career Grand Slam, an Irish Open victory, and a Ryder Cup triumph on foreign soil. Yet, the 36-year-old insists he’s far from satisfied. “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,” McIlroy said after being named BBC Sports Personality of the Year. He’s eyeing an eighth Race to Dubai title, which would tie Colin Montgomerie’s Order of Merit record. “I still feel like I have a few good years ahead. Thankfully, I’ve stayed injury-free, and the drive to improve is still there.”
Just a day later, McIlroy was spotted ringside at the Anthony Joshua vs. Jake Paul boxing match in Miami, where Paul suffered a double jaw fracture. McIlroy, now a part-time Florida resident, may spend the holidays in England before debuting with Boston Common in the TGL on January 2. He confirmed the addition of Michael Thorbjornsen as a backup for teammates 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,” McIlroy explained.
OWGR and LIV Golf: ‘There’s a Chance’
LIV Golf is renewing its push for inclusion 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. “Scott and I are working closely with the board 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 merit-based nature of OWGR: “You have to earn your place on a tour and fight to keep it. That’s been a key part of our talks with LIV.”
Team of the Year: Donald’s Gratitude
McIlroy wasn’t the only golf winner at the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year awards. The European Ryder Cup team, led by Luke Donald, was named Team of the Year for their victory at Bethpage Black. McIlroy accepted the award alongside teammate Tommy Fleetwood, while others joined virtually. Donald shared his thanks on social media, representing the entire squad.