Will LIV Golf earn OWGR points soon? Plus McIlroy’s ambition, Donald’s thanks, Henseleit’s wedding and Couples’ new look.
Rory McIlroy capped off a stellar 2025 season with the prestigious BBC Sports Personality of the Year award, 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 a lot more to achieve,” said McIlroy, reflecting on a year that included a Masters win to complete the career Grand Slam, an Irish Open victory, and a Ryder Cup triumph on away soil. One goal? Matching Colin Montgomerie’s record with an eighth Race to Dubai title. “I still feel like 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 boxing match in Miami, where Paul suffered a double jaw fracture. McIlroy, ever the media magnet, gave interviews there too.
OWGR and LIV Golf: A New Chance?
LIV Golf is once again pushing for inclusion in the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR). Trevor Immelman, who chairs the OWGR board, confirmed ongoing discussions 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 switch to 72-hole events and expand its field, aligning more with OWGR standards. “Golf is a meritocracy. You earn your place and fight to keep it. That’s the message we’ve conveyed to LIV,” Immelman added.
Team of the Year: Luke Donald’s Gratitude
McIlroy wasn’t the only golf winner at the SPOTY awards. Luke Donald’s European Ryder Cup team was named Team of the Year for their victory at Bethpage Black. McIlroy lifted a second trophy that night, joined by teammate Tommy Fleetwood. The rest of the squad sent their thanks via social media, with Donald leading the gratitude.
More Back Nine Highlights
Esther Henseleit married her fiancé and caddie Reece Phillips in South Tyrol, joined by fellow golfers Polly Mack, Sophia Popov, and Nanna Koerstz Madsen. Fred Couples became the latest ambassador for trendy golf brand Malbon, joining Charley Hull and Jason Day. Meanwhile, the PGA Tour announced Cadillac as the title sponsor for the 2026 Cadillac Championship at Trump National Doral’s Blue Monster course. And in auction news, Tiger Woods’ irons from his Tiger Slam fetched a record $5.1 million. Finally, a World War II grenade found at Royal Liverpool was safely detonated—just another week in the world of golf.