Koepka’s suspension, Pereira’s retirement, McIlroy’s club list, Müller’s swing tips, Williams’ golf classic. The year-end Back Nine.
Scottie Scheffler is just one title away from completing the career Grand Slam. After winning the Masters, PGA Championship, and Open Championship, only the U.S. Open remains. That opportunity may come in six months at the 126th U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills on Long Island. Given Scheffler’s dominance and proven skill on the PGA Tour, it seems only a matter of time before he joins the elite club of Rory McIlroy, Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Ben Hogan, and Gene Sarazen. Bookmakers agree, making the 29-year-old the heavy favorite for all four majors in 2026.
That inevitability has sparked some humorous speculation: when will Bennett Scheffler, Scottie’s young son, complete his own version of the Slam? Not as a player—he’s not even two years old yet—but as a witness. The toddler has already attended two major wins with his father in 2024, including a memorable appearance at the Royal Portrush trophy ceremony. Since he missed the 2024 Masters (his mother was heavily pregnant), he’s still two short. But with Scottie favored in all majors through 2026, Bennett’s chances of witnessing a full Grand Slam soon are looking good.
Koepka’s Return and Pereira’s Exit
Brooks Koepka could be eligible to return to the PGA Tour in August 2026, once his one-year suspension following his last LIV Golf appearance expires—if he applies for reinstatement. In the meantime, Taylor “Asterisk” Gooch will take over as captain of Smash GC. Meanwhile, Mito Pereira of Torque GC has announced his retirement from professional golf. The 30-year-old Chilean is stepping away to focus on family life back home.
McIlroy’s 18 Club Memberships
Rory McIlroy is a hot commodity not just on tour, but also among golf clubs worldwide. The five-time major winner and near Grand Slam achiever holds 18 club memberships, including his home club Holywood GC, the Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, and the ultra-exclusive Seminole GC—where he also pays for his father Gerry’s membership.
Holiday Highlights: Weddings, Gifts, and Golf Classics
Esther Henseleit shared photos from her wedding to Reece Phillips in the Dolomites, adding a personal touch to her Olympic silver medal year. TaylorMade’s annual holiday commercial once again delighted fans with its behind-the-scenes creativity. Footballer Thomas Müller gave a golf swing demo during a basketball game halftime, while NFL safety Julian Love gifted his teammates premium Vessel golf bags and Bettinardi putters. And to close the year, Robin Williams’ legendary comedic take on the invention of golf resurfaced—still a classic worth revisiting.