Will LIV Golf get world ranking points? 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 with a major accolade: BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year. But the 36-year-old insists he’s far from satisfied. “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 in 2025 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.
One goal? An eighth Race to Dubai title, which would tie Colin Montgomerie’s record. “I still feel 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 in Miami for the Anthony Joshua vs. Jake Paul boxing match, where Paul suffered a double jaw fracture. McIlroy, ever the media magnet, gave interviews there as well.
McIlroy joins TGL with Boston Common
On January 2, McIlroy will debut with Boston Common in the second season of the high-tech Tomorrow’s Golf League (TGL). He confirmed that 24-year-old American pro Michael Thorbjornsen will serve as a substitute for teammates Adam Scott and Hideki Matsuyama, who will be in Australia and Japan, respectively. “So it’ll be Keegan [Bradley] and me, with Michael filling in,” McIlroy explained.
OWGR and LIV Golf: ‘There’s a chance’
LIV Golf is renewing its push for Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points. Trevor Immelman, chairman 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 switch to 72-hole events and expand its field. “The OWGR is a meritocracy. You earn your place and fight to keep it. That’s what we’ve been helping LIV understand,” he added.
Team of the Year: Donald and McIlroy honored
McIlroy wasn’t the only one honored at the SPOTY awards. Team Europe, led by Luke Donald, was named Team of the Year for their Ryder Cup win at Bethpage Black. McIlroy accepted the award alongside teammate Tommy Fleetwood, while others joined virtually. Donald shared his gratitude via social media.