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 career by being named Sports Personality of the Year. But the 36-year-old has no plans to slow down. “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 secure a Ryder Cup victory on foreign soil. He’s eyeing an eighth Race to Dubai title to match Colin Montgomerie’s record. “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 spotted ringside at the Anthony Joshua vs. Jake Paul boxing match in Miami, where he also spoke to the media.
OWGR and LIV Golf: ‘There’s a Chance’
LIV Golf is making another push to be included in the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR). 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 switch to 72-hole events and expand its field size. Immelman emphasized the importance of meritocracy in golf: “You have to earn your place on a tour and fight to keep it. That’s been a key part of our discussions.”
Luke Donald’s Team of the Year Thanks
At the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year awards, McIlroy wasn’t the only golfer honored. Luke Donald’s Ryder Cup team was named Team of the Year for their win at Bethpage Black. McIlroy accepted the award alongside teammate Tommy Fleetwood, while others joined via social media. Captain Donald expressed gratitude on behalf of the team.
More Golf Highlights
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 became the latest ambassador for trendy golf brand Malbon, joining Charley Hull and Jason Day. Meanwhile, the PGA Tour announced Cadillac as title sponsor for the 2026 Cadillac Championship at Trump National Doral’s Blue Monster course. And in a record-setting auction, Tiger Woods’ irons from his ‘Tiger Slam’ fetched $5.1 million, with striking wear marks on the sweet spots. Finally, Royal Liverpool saw a controlled detonation of a WWII grenade found on the course—just another day in golf history.