Rory McIlroy Reflects on Stellar Year, Eyes More in 2026

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 a career-defining year in 2025 with a Masters victory, completing the career Grand Slam, an Irish Open win, and a Ryder Cup triumph on foreign soil. Yet, the 36-year-old is far from satisfied. After being named BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year, McIlroy declared, “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.”

Among his goals is an eighth Race to Dubai title, which would tie Colin Montgomerie’s Order of Merit record. “I still feel I have a few good years ahead. Thankfully, I’ve stayed injury-free, and the drive to improve is still there,” he added.

Just a day later, McIlroy was spotted at the boxing match between Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul in Miami, where Paul suffered a double jaw fracture. McIlroy, always in the spotlight, fielded questions there as well.

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, 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, aligning more with OWGR standards. “Golf is a meritocracy,” Immelman emphasized. “You earn your place and fight to keep it. That’s been a key part of our talks with LIV.”

Team of the Year: Luke Donald Shares Gratitude

McIlroy’s SPOTY win broke a long drought for golf, the first since Nick Faldo in 1989. Adding to the celebration, Luke Donald’s Ryder Cup team was named Team of the Year for their away win at Bethpage Black. McIlroy lifted two trophies that night, joined by teammate Tommy Fleetwood. The rest of the team chimed in via social media, with captain Donald expressing heartfelt thanks.

More Highlights: Weddings, Fashion, and Auctions

Esther Henseleit tied the knot with fiancé and caddie Reece Phillips in the Italian Alps, joined by fellow golfers Polly Mack, Sophia Popov, and Nanna Koerstz Madsen. Meanwhile, Fred Couples became the latest ambassador for trendy golf brand Malbon, joining Charley Hull and Jason Day.

In other news, the PGA Tour announced Cadillac as title sponsor for the 2026 Cadillac Championship at Trump National Doral’s Blue Monster. The move adds another Trump-owned venue to the pro golf calendar, echoing similar decisions by the DP World Tour.

And in the world of golf memorabilia, Tiger Woods’ irons from his historic Tiger Slam fetched a staggering $5.1 million at auction. The wear patterns on