Will LIV Golf earn world ranking points soon? Plus McIlroy’s goals, Donald’s thanks, Henseleit’s wedding, and Couples’ new look.
Rory McIlroy has capped off what he calls the best year of his professional career, but the 36-year-old is already looking ahead. After being named Sports Personality of the Year following a season that included a Masters win, a completed career Grand Slam, an Irish Open victory, and a Ryder Cup triumph, McIlroy made it clear he’s not done yet. “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,” he said. One goal? An eighth Race to Dubai title, which would tie Colin Montgomerie’s Order of Merit record. “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 appeared ringside at the boxing match between Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul in Miami, where Paul suffered a double jaw fracture. McIlroy, ever the star, was happy to chat with media there as well.
McIlroy’s TGL Debut and Team Update
It’s unclear whether McIlroy will spend the holidays in Florida or at his new home in England’s Wentworth Estates. What is certain: on January 2, he’ll debut with Boston Common in the second season of the Tomorrow’s Golf League (TGL). McIlroy confirmed that Michael Thorbjornsen, 24, has joined the squad as a backup for the core team of McIlroy, Keegan Bradley, Adam Scott, and Hideki Matsuyama. “Hideki will be in Japan and Adam in Australia when we play our first match, so Michael will join Keegan and me,” McIlroy explained.
OWGR and LIV Golf: ‘There’s a Chance’
LIV Golf has renewed its push for inclusion in the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR). Trevor Immelman, chair of the OWGR board 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,” Immelman said. LIV plans to move to 72-hole events and expand its field size. “The OWGR is about meritocracy. You have to earn your spot 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
At the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year awards, McIlroy broke a decades-long drought for golf by winning the top individual honor. The European Ryder Cup team, captained by Luke Donald, was also 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, including a heartfelt message from skipper Donald.