Will LIV Golf earn OWGR points soon? Plus McIlroy’s ambitions, 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 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, claimed the Irish Open, and helped secure a Ryder Cup victory on foreign soil.
Next on his radar: tying Colin Montgomerie’s record with an eighth Race to Dubai title. “I definitely want to try. I still feel like I’ve got a few good years left. 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 Anthony Joshua vs. Jake Paul fight in Miami, where Paul suffered a double jaw fracture. Naturally, McIlroy was asked about his plans and ambitions there too.
McIlroy and TGL: Boston Common Adds Thorbjornsen
McIlroy’s next appearance will be on January 2 with Boston Common in the second season of the TGL indoor league. With Hideki Matsuyama in Japan and Adam Scott in Australia, McIlroy confirmed that Michael Thorbjornsen will step in alongside him and Keegan Bradley. “Hideki and Adam are world travelers. So Michael will join Keegan and me for the opener,” McIlroy explained.
OWGR and LIV Golf: ‘There’s a Chance’
LIV Golf is making another push to join the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) system. Trevor Immelman, who chairs the OWGR board, confirmed 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. “The OWGR is a meritocracy. You earn your place and fight to keep it. That’s the message we’ve worked to convey to LIV,” he added.
Donald’s Thanks as Team of the Year
McIlroy wasn’t the only golfer honored at the SPOTY awards. The European Ryder Cup team, captained 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 in virtually. Donald expressed his gratitude on social media, representing the team’s appreciation.