Will LIV earn OWGR points soon? Plus McIlroy’s goals, Donald’s thanks, Henseleit’s wedding and Couples’ new look.
Rory McIlroy capped off a stellar 2025 season by being named BBC Sports Personality of the Year, but the 36-year-old shows no signs of slowing 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 Team Europe win the Ryder Cup on U.S. soil. His next target? A record-tying eighth Race to Dubai title. \”I still feel I have a few good years ahead. Thankfully, I’ve stayed injury-free. The drive to improve is still there.\”
Just a day later, McIlroy appeared ringside at the Anthony Joshua vs. Jake Paul fight in Miami, where Paul suffered a double jaw fracture. McIlroy, ever the media magnet, shared a few more thoughts while there.
Whether he’ll spend the holidays in Florida or at his new home in England’s Wentworth Estates remains unclear. What is certain is his January 2 debut with Boston Common in the second season of the TGL. McIlroy confirmed the addition of 24-year-old American pro Michael Thorbjornsen as a backup for the team, which includes Keegan Bradley, Adam Scott, and Hideki Matsuyama. \”Hideki will be in Japan and Adam in Australia, so Michael will join Keegan and me for our first match,\” McIlroy explained.
OWGR and LIV: \”There’s a Chance\”
The LIV Golf League is making renewed efforts to gain Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points. Trevor Immelman, who chairs the OWGR board, revealed he’s in ongoing discussions with LIV CEO Scott O’Neil. \”We’re working closely to find a solution. I think there’s a chance,\” said Immelman, noting LIV’s switch to 72-hole events and plans to expand its field. \”OWGR is about meritocracy—you earn and fight to keep your place. That’s been a key part of my conversations with Scott.\”
Team of the Year: Donald’s Message
McIlroy wasn’t the only one honored at the SPOTY awards. The European Ryder Cup team, led by Luke Donald, was named Team of the Year for their win at Bethpage Black. McIlroy accepted the award alongside teammate Tommy Fleetwood, while others joined virtually. Donald shared a heartfelt thank-you message on social media.
Back Nine Highlights
Esther Henseleit tied the knot with fiancé and caddie Reece Phillips in the scenic Seiser Alm, South Tyrol. Fellow golfers Polly Mack, Sophia Popov, and Nanna Koerstz Madsen were in attendance.
Fred Couples, the 1992 Masters champion, joined Charley Hull and Jason Day as an ambassador for trendy golf brand Malbon, blending classic cool with modern streetwear.
The PGA Tour announced Cadillac