Justin Rose rules out Ryder Cup captaincy for 2027, Min Woo Lee commits to PGA Tour, and McIlroy hits top speed. The Back Nine.
Team Europe is still searching for a captain for the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor. With Edoardo Molinari already out of the running, Justin Rose has also indicated he won’t be taking the helm. According to The Telegraph, the Englishman prefers to remain a player and hopes to compete in what would be his eighth Ryder Cup. Rose, 45, contributed three points in Bethpage Black and still has his eyes on the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
“There’s a time for vice captains, there’s a time for captains. But right now, I still love to compete,” said Rose. “It’s amazing that I’m still learning as a player at 45, and I want to preserve that as long as I can.”
With Rose and Edoardo Molinari out, Francesco Molinari remains a leading candidate—unless Luke Donald goes for a historic third term. However, insiders suggest Donald is undecided, with his odds at 50:50. Rose admits Donald has set a high bar: “Luke made such a strong impression, it’s hard for anyone to follow.”
Min Woo Lee shuts down LIV rumors
After Marco Penge dismissed speculation about joining LIV Golf, Min Woo Lee became the next target of transfer rumors. But the 27-year-old Australian has no plans to jump ship. “There were a lot of rumors,” said Lee, brother of three-time major winner Minjee Lee. “But I’m not going anywhere. I’ll only play on the PGA Tour. I’m happy with where I’m at and excited for next season.”
McIlroy’s high-speed ride and SPOTY hopes
Rory McIlroy enjoyed a Ferrari ride with race driver Francesca Pardini at Yas Marina Circuit ahead of the HSBC Abu Dhabi Championship—complete with heart rate monitor. He’s also confirmed attendance at the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year gala for the first time in over a decade. Despite a stellar 2025 season, McIlroy remains an underdog behind footballer Chloe Kelly. “If I don’t win this time, I never will,” he joked.
Charlie Woods named All-American
Charlie Woods continues to follow in his father’s footsteps. The 16-year-old has been named to the AJGA All-American Team after a strong season, including a win at the Team TaylorMade Invitational. He finished ninth in the season rankings. Miles Russell was named Player of the Year for the second time, echoing Tiger Woods’ back-to-back honors in 1991 and 1992.