Koepka’s suspension, Pereira’s retirement, McIlroy’s memberships, Müller’s swing tips, and Williams’ golf classic. The back nine of the year.
Scottie Scheffler is just one major away from completing the career Grand Slam. After winning the Masters, PGA Championship, and The Open in 2024, only the U.S. Open remains. The 126th edition at Shinnecock Hills in June 2026 could be the moment. Bookmakers are already placing the world No. 1 as the heavy favorite for all four majors that year.
But while Scottie’s Slam seems inevitable, Golf Digest jokingly posed a more whimsical question: When will Bennett Scheffler complete his Grand Slam? The toddler, who turns two in May, has already witnessed two major wins in person. He was famously present at the Royal Portrush trophy ceremony. However, he missed the 2024 Masters and U.S. Open due to his mother’s pregnancy. With Scottie favored in 2026, Bennett’s chances of experiencing all four majors soon are looking good.
Koepka’s Return and Pereira’s Exit
Brooks Koepka could be eligible to return to the PGA Tour by August 2026, assuming he reapplies for membership after serving a one-year suspension following his last LIV Golf appearance. In the meantime, Taylor “Asterisk” Gooch will take over as Smash GC captain. Meanwhile, Mito Pereira has announced his retirement from professional golf. The 30-year-old Chilean, formerly of Torque GC, plans to focus on family life back home.
Garcia’s LIV Commitment and McIlroy’s Club List
Sergio Garcia has extended his contract with LIV Golf for multiple years and added Luis Masaveu to his all-Spanish Fireballs GC lineup, which includes Jose Ballester and David Puig. Rory McIlroy, meanwhile, holds an impressive 18 golf club memberships, including Holywood GC, The Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, and the exclusive Seminole GC, where he also covers his father’s dues.
Holiday Highlights and Golf Humor
Esther Henseleit shared wedding photos from her ceremony with Reece Phillips in the Dolomites. TaylorMade released its annual holiday commercial featuring its ambassadors. Thomas Müller gave a golf swing demo during a basketball game halftime. NFL’s Julian Love gifted his teammates Vessel golf bags and Bettinardi putters. And to wrap up the year, a classic Robin Williams bit on the invention of golf made the rounds again. Here’s to a fun and golf-filled 2026!