Will LIV Golf earn OWGR points soon? Plus McIlroy’s big goals, Donald’s thanks, Henseleit’s wedding and Couples’ new style.
Rory McIlroy capped off a stellar 2025 season with the prestigious BBC Sports Personality of the Year award, but the 36-year-old isn’t ready to rest on his laurels. “I don’t know what I’ll do in 2026 to top this, but I’m going to try. There’s still a lot more to achieve,” said McIlroy after a year that included a Masters win, completing the career Grand Slam, an Irish Open victory, and a Ryder Cup win on foreign soil.
One of his next targets? An eighth Race to Dubai title, which would tie Colin Montgomerie’s record. “I’d love to try that. I still feel like I have a few good years ahead. Thankfully, I’ve stayed injury-free, and the drive to improve is still there,” McIlroy added.
Just a day later, McIlroy appeared ringside at the Anthony Joshua vs. Jake Paul boxing match in Miami, where Paul suffered a double jaw fracture. Naturally, McIlroy was asked about his plans there too.
McIlroy Preps for TGL with Boston Common
It’s unclear whether McIlroy will spend the holidays in Florida or at his new home in England’s Wentworth Estates. What is certain: he’ll debut with Boston Common in the second season of the Tomorrow’s Golf League (TGL) on January 2. McIlroy confirmed that Michael Thorbjornsen will join as a substitute for the team, which includes Keegan Bradley, Adam Scott, and Hideki Matsuyama. “Hideki will be in Japan and Adam in Australia, so Michael will step in alongside Keegan and me,” he explained.
OWGR and LIV Golf: ‘There’s a Chance’
LIV Golf is making another push to gain recognition from the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR). Trevor Immelman, who chairs the OWGR board, 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, aligning more closely with OWGR standards. “The OWGR is about meritocracy—you earn and fight to keep your place. That’s been a key part of my discussions with Scott,” Immelman emphasized.
BBC Honors: Team of the Year and Donald’s Gratitude
McIlroy wasn’t the only golf winner at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards. The European Ryder Cup team, captained by Luke Donald, was named Team of the Year for their triumph at Bethpage Black. McIlroy accepted the award alongside teammate Tommy Fleetwood, while others joined virtually. Donald expressed his thanks on social media, celebrating the team’s unity and success.