Koepka’s suspension, Pereira’s retirement, McIlroy’s club tally, Müller’s swing demo, Williams’ golf classic. The year-end Back Nine.
Scottie Scheffler is just one win away from completing the career Grand Slam. After victories at the Masters, PGA Championship, and Open Championship, only the U.S. Open remains. With the 126th edition set for Shinnecock Hills in just over six months, the odds are in his favor. Bookmakers already have the world No. 1 as the heavy favorite for all four majors in 2026.
But while Scheffler’s dominance makes this a near certainty, Golf Digest took a humorous detour: when will Bennett Scheffler, Scottie’s toddler son, complete his own version of the career slam? Not as a player—he’s not even two years old yet—but as a spectator. He’s already witnessed two major wins in 2024, including a memorable appearance at Royal Portrush. With his father a top contender at every major, Bennett might just complete the fan Grand Slam by 2026.
Koepka Eyes PGA Tour Return
Brooks Koepka could be back on the PGA Tour as early as August 2026. The five-time major winner will be eligible to reapply for membership after serving a one-year suspension following his last LIV Golf appearance. Taylor “Asterisk” Gooch will take over as captain of Smash GC. Meanwhile, Mito Pereira has announced his retirement from professional golf. The 30-year-old Chilean, formerly of Torque GC, plans to focus on family life back home.
Garcia Extends LIV Deal, McIlroy’s Club Count
Sergio Garcia has reportedly extended his LIV Golf contract for several years and added Luis Masaveu to his all-Spanish Fireballs GC team, which also includes Jose Ballester and David Puig. Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy holds an impressive 18 club memberships, including Holywood GC, Royal & Ancient St Andrews, and the exclusive Seminole GC—where he even covers the dues for his father.
More Year-End Highlights
Esther Henseleit shared wedding photos from her ceremony in the Dolomites. TaylorMade released its annual holiday commercial featuring its brand ambassadors. Thomas Müller gave a golf swing demo during a basketball game halftime. NFL’s Julian Love gifted his defensive teammates Vessel golf bags and Bettinardi putters. And finally, Robin Williams’ legendary golf origin story sketch made the rounds again—because some classics never get old.