Will LIV Golf earn OWGR points soon? Plus McIlroy’s ambitions, Donald’s thanks, Henseleit’s wedding and Couples’ new look.
Rory McIlroy has capped off what he calls 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,” said McIlroy, who in 2025 completed the career Grand Slam with a Masters win, triumphed at the Irish Open, and helped secure a Ryder Cup victory on U.S. soil.
One goal on the horizon: matching Colin Montgomerie’s record with an eighth Race to Dubai title. “I definitely want to try. I still feel 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 appeared ringside at the boxing match between Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul in Miami, where he also shared his thoughts with the media.
OWGR and LIV Golf: ‘There’s a Chance’
The LIV Golf League is renewing efforts to gain 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. “We’re working closely to find a solution. I think there’s a chance,” said Immelman, noting LIV’s move to 72-hole events and plans to expand its field. “The OWGR is a meritocracy. You have to earn your place and fight to keep it. That’s been a key part of our talks with LIV.”
Luke Donald Thanks Fans After Team of the Year Win
McIlroy’s SPOTY win also included a team triumph: Luke Donald’s European Ryder Cup squad was named Team of the Year. McIlroy accepted the award alongside teammate Tommy Fleetwood, while others joined virtually. Donald expressed gratitude on social media, celebrating the squad’s historic win at Bethpage Black.
More Headlines: Weddings, Sponsorships, and Auctions
Esther Henseleit married her caddie and fiancé Reece Phillips in South Tyrol, joined by fellow pros Polly Mack, Sophia Popov, and Nanna Koerstz Madsen. Meanwhile, Fred Couples became the latest ambassador for trendy golfwear brand Malbon, joining Charley Hull and Jason Day.
In other news, the PGA Tour announced Cadillac as the title sponsor for the 2026 Cadillac Championship at Trump National Doral. The move marks another high-profile event at a Trump-owned course, following similar decisions by the DP World Tour.
And in the world of memorabilia, the set of irons Tiger Woods used during his legendary “Tiger Slam” sold for a staggering $5.1 million, with the wear patterns on the clubfaces drawing particular awe.
Finally, a World War II grenade discovered at Royal Liverpool Golf Club was safely detonated, with dramatic footage