Will LIV Golf earn OWGR points soon? Plus McIlroy’s ambitions, Donald’s thanks, Henseleit’s wedding and Couples’ new look.
Rory McIlroy capped off what he called the best year of his professional career by being named BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year. 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 completed the career Grand Slam with a Masters win, triumphed at the Irish Open, and helped Europe win the Ryder Cup on U.S. soil.
One goal? A record-tying eighth Race to Dubai title, matching Colin Montgomerie. \”I’d love to try. I still feel 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 seen ringside at the Anthony Joshua vs. Jake Paul fight in Miami, where Paul suffered a double jaw fracture. McIlroy, now spending less time in Florida, may celebrate the holidays in his new home in England’s Wentworth Estates. He’s also preparing for his January 2 debut with Boston Common in the second season of the TGL indoor league. With Hideki Matsuyama in Japan and Adam Scott in Australia, Michael Thorbjornsen will join McIlroy and Keegan Bradley for the opener.
OWGR and LIV Golf: ‘There is a chance’
LIV Golf has renewed efforts to gain Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points. Trevor Immelman, chair of the OWGR board since April, confirmed ongoing talks with LIV CEO Scott O’Neil. \”We’re working closely to find a solution. I think there’s a chance,\” said Immelman. LIV plans to shift to 72-hole events and expand its field. \”The OWGR is merit-based—you earn your spot and fight to keep it. We’ve been helping LIV understand that perspective,\” he added.
Donald thanks fans after Team of the Year win
McIlroy’s SPOTY win broke a golf drought dating back to Nick Faldo in 1989. But the celebrations didn’t stop there—Luke Donald’s European Ryder Cup team was named Team of the Year. McIlroy accepted the award alongside teammate Tommy Fleetwood, while others joined via social media. Captain Donald shared his gratitude in a heartfelt message.
More headlines: Weddings, deals, and big auctions
Esther Henseleit tied the knot with fiancé and caddie Reece Phillips in South Tyrol, with fellow pros Polly Mack, Sophia Popov, and Nanna Koerstz Madsen in attendance. Fred Couples joined Malbon as a brand ambassador, following Charley Hull and Jason Day. Meanwhile, Tiger Woods’ irons from his historic Tiger Slam fetched $5.1 million at auction, with remarkable wear patterns on the clubfaces.
In other news, the PGA Tour announced Cadillac as title sponsor for the 2026 Cadillac Championship at Trump National Doral