Will LIV Golf earn OWGR points soon? Plus McIlroy’s ambitions, Donald’s thanks, Henseleit’s wedding and Couples in Malbon.
Rory McIlroy capped off a career-defining year in 2025 by being named Sports Personality of the Year, but the 36-year-old is already looking ahead. \”I don’t know what I’ll do in 2026 to top this, but I’ll try. There’s still so much more to achieve,\” said McIlroy, who completed the career Grand Slam with a Masters win, triumphed at the Irish Open, and helped Team Europe win the Ryder Cup away from home. He also hinted at chasing an eighth Race to Dubai title to match Colin Montgomerie’s record. \”I still feel I have a few good years left. Thankfully, 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 fight in Miami, where Paul suffered a double jaw fracture. McIlroy, ever the sportsman, was happy to speak to the media there as well.
OWGR and LIV Golf: “There’s a chance”
LIV Golf is making another push for Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) recognition. Trevor Immelman, who chairs the OWGR board, revealed that he’s in constant contact with LIV CEO Scott O’Neil. \”We’re working closely to find a solution, and I think there’s a chance,\” said Immelman. LIV plans to switch to 72-hole events and expand its field size. \”The OWGR is about meritocracy. You earn your place and fight to keep it. That’s the message we’ve been sharing with LIV,\” he added.
McIlroy and Team Europe Honored
McIlroy’s SPOTY win broke a long-standing drought for golf, the first since Nick Faldo in 1989. Adding to the celebration, Luke Donald’s Ryder Cup squad was named Team of the Year after their win at Bethpage Black. McIlroy accepted the award alongside teammate Tommy Fleetwood, while the rest of the team joined virtually. Donald expressed his gratitude via social media.
More from the Back Nine
Esther Henseleit tied the knot with her fiancé and caddie Reece Phillips in the scenic Seiser Alm, South Tyrol. Fellow golfers Polly Mack, Sophia Popov, and Nanna Koerstz Madsen attended the ceremony.
Fred Couples, the 1992 Masters champion, joined Malbon as a brand ambassador, following Charley Hull and Jason Day. The stylish collaboration seems like a perfect fit.
The PGA Tour announced Cadillac as the title sponsor for the 2026 Cadillac Championship, a Signature Event to be held at Trump National Doral’s Blue Monster. The move adds another high-profile event to Trump’s golf portfolio.
In auction news, the iron set Tiger Woods used during his legendary Tiger Slam fetched $5.1 million. The wear patterns on the clubfaces are a testament to his precision.