Will LIV Golf earn OWGR points soon? Plus McIlroy’s ambitions, Donald’s thanks, Henseleit’s wedding and Couples’ new look.
Rory McIlroy capped a stellar 2025 season with the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year award, but the 36-year-old insists he’s far from satisfied. “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 after a year that included a Masters win to complete the career Grand Slam, an Irish Open victory, and a Ryder Cup triumph on foreign soil.
He’s eyeing an eighth Race to Dubai title, which would tie Colin Montgomerie’s record. “I still feel I have a few good years ahead. Knock on wood, I’ve stayed injury-free. The drive to improve is still there.”
Just a day later, McIlroy was spotted ringside in Miami at the Anthony Joshua vs. Jake Paul fight, where Paul suffered a double jaw fracture. McIlroy, ever the media magnet, gave interviews there as well.
McIlroy and TGL: New Season, New Faces
McIlroy’s next appearance will be with Boston Common in the second season of the Tomorrow’s Golf League (TGL), starting January 2. He confirmed that 24-year-old American pro Michael Thorbjornsen will join the team, filling in for Hideki Matsuyama and Adam Scott, who will be in Japan and Australia respectively. “Michael will team up with Keegan [Bradley] and me,” McIlroy explained.
OWGR and LIV Golf: A New Chance
The LIV Golf League is renewing efforts to gain recognition from the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR). Trevor Immelman, OWGR chairman since April, revealed 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 expand its field and switch to 72-hole events. “The OWGR is a meritocracy. You earn your place and fight to keep it. That’s been a key part of our talks with LIV,” he added.
Team of the Year: Donald’s Gratitude
McIlroy’s BBC honor wasn’t the only golf win of the night. Luke Donald’s European Ryder Cup squad was named Team of the Year after their victory at Bethpage Black. McIlroy accepted the award alongside teammate Tommy Fleetwood, while others joined virtually. Captain Donald shared his thanks on social media.