Will LIV Golf earn OWGR points? Plus McIlroy’s goals, Donald’s thanks, Henseleit’s wedding and Couples’ new look. The Back Nine.
After arguably the best season of his career, Rory McIlroy isn’t slowing down. Following his crowning as BBC Sports Personality of the Year—highlighted by a Masters victory, completing the career Grand Slam, an Irish Open win, and a Ryder Cup triumph—the 36-year-old remains driven. “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,” McIlroy said. One goal? Matching Colin Montgomerie’s record with an eighth Race to Dubai title. “I still feel I have a few good years ahead. Thankfully, I’ve stayed injury-free, and the motivation 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, of course, was happy to chat with media there too.
Whether he’ll spend the holidays in Florida or at his new home in England’s Wentworth Estates remains unclear. What is certain: McIlroy will debut with Boston Common in the second season of the TGL on January 2. He also confirmed the addition of 24-year-old Michael Thorbjornsen as a substitute player alongside Keegan Bradley, Adam Scott, and Hideki Matsuyama. “Hideki will be in Japan and Adam in Australia, so Michael will step in with Keegan and me.”
OWGR and LIV Golf: ‘There’s a Chance’
LIV Golf is making another push for Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) recognition. Trevor Immelman, chair of the OWGR board since April, revealed ongoing discussions with LIV CEO Scott O’Neil—even during the PNC Championship. “Scott, our board, and I are working closely to find a solution. I think there’s a chance,” Immelman said. LIV plans to switch to 72-hole events and expand its field. “OWGR is merit-based. You earn your spot and fight to keep it. That’s what we’ve been helping LIV understand,” he added.
Team of the Year: Donald’s Thanks
McIlroy’s SPOTY win broke a golf drought dating back to Nick Faldo in 1989. Adding to the celebration, Luke Donald’s Ryder Cup squad was named Team of the Year for their away win at Bethpage Black. McIlroy lifted two trophies that night, joined by teammate Tommy Fleetwood. The rest of the team chimed in via social media, with captain Donald offering heartfelt thanks.
More Headlines: Weddings, Fashion, and Tiger’s Clubs
Esther Henseleit tied the knot with fiancé and caddie Reece Phillips in South Tyrol, joined by fellow golfers Polly Mack, Sophia Popov, and Nanna Koerstz Madsen. Fred Couples, aka “Boom Boom Freddy,” became the latest ambassador for trendy golfwear brand Malbon