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 professional career by being named Sports Personality of the Year. But the 36-year-old isn’t resting on his laurels. “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 declared after a season that included a Masters win to complete the career Grand Slam, a victory at the Irish Open, and a Ryder Cup win on foreign soil. One goal? Winning the Race to Dubai for the eighth time to tie Colin Montgomerie’s record. “I still feel like 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 boxing match between Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul in Miami, where Paul suffered a double jaw fracture. Naturally, McIlroy was in the spotlight there too.
OWGR and LIV Golf: ‘There’s a Chance’
The LIV Golf League is renewing its push for Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points. Trevor Immelman, chair of the OWGR board since April, revealed 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 shift to 72-hole events and expand its field. Immelman emphasized the importance of meritocracy in golf: “You have to earn and fight for your place on a tour. That’s been a key part of my conversations with Scott.”
Donald’s Thanks After Team of the Year Honor
McIlroy broke a long-standing drought for golf at the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year awards, becoming the first golfer since Nick Faldo in 1989 to win. The European Ryder Cup team, led by Luke Donald, was also named Team of the Year for their victory at Bethpage Black. McIlroy accepted the award alongside teammate Tommy Fleetwood, while others chimed in via social media. Donald expressed his gratitude on behalf of the team.