Will LIV Golf earn OWGR points soon? Plus McIlroy’s big year, Donald’s thanks, Henseleit’s wedding and Couples’ new look.
Rory McIlroy has capped off what he called the best year of his professional career, but the 36-year-old is far from satisfied. After being named Sports Personality of the Year, McIlroy reflected on a season that included a Masters win, completing the career Grand Slam, a victory at the Irish Open, and a Ryder Cup triumph on foreign soil. \”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,\” he said.
Among his goals: an eighth Race to Dubai title, which would tie Colin Montgomerie’s record. \”I still feel like I have a few good years ahead. Knock on wood, 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 he again shared his thoughts with the media.
OWGR and LIV Golf: A Possible Breakthrough?
LIV Golf’s quest for Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points may be gaining traction. Trevor Immelman, chair of the OWGR board since April, confirmed ongoing discussions with LIV CEO Scott O’Neil. \”We’re working very closely to find a solution, and I think there’s a chance,\” Immelman said. LIV plans to shift to 72-hole events and expand its field size—key steps toward OWGR eligibility. \”Golf is a meritocracy. You have to earn your spot and fight to keep it. That’s been a major part of our conversations,\” Immelman emphasized.
Team of the Year: Donald and McIlroy Honored
At the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year awards, McIlroy broke a long-standing drought for golf, becoming the first golfer since Nick Faldo in 1989 to win the individual honor. Adding to the celebration, Team Europe’s Ryder Cup squad, captained by Luke Donald, was named Team of the Year. McIlroy accepted the trophy alongside teammate Tommy Fleetwood, while others joined virtually to express their gratitude.
More Headlines: Weddings, Fashion, and Big Deals
Esther Henseleit, silver medalist at Paris 2024, married her fiancé and caddie Reece Phillips in the Italian Alps, joined by fellow pros Polly Mack, Sophia Popov, and Nanna Koerstz Madsen. Meanwhile, Fred Couples became the latest ambassador for trendy golf brand Malbon, joining Charley Hull and Jason Day.
In other news, the PGA Tour announced Cadillac as the title sponsor for a new Signature Event at Trump National Doral’s Blue Monster course in 2026. The move marks another high-profile tournament at a Trump-owned venue, following the DP World Tour’s Irish Open at Doonbeg.
And finally, a set of irons used by Tiger Woods during his historic \”Tiger Slam\”—winning four consecutive majors across