Rory McIlroy eyes more after Sports Personality honor

Will LIV Golf earn OWGR points soon? Plus McIlroy’s ambitions, Donald’s thanks, Henseleit’s wedding and Couples’ new style.

Rory McIlroy has capped off what he calls the best year of his professional career, but the 36-year-old isn’t slowing down. After being named BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year, McIlroy reflected on his 2025 triumphs—including a Masters win to complete the career Grand Slam, an Irish Open victory, and a Ryder Cup win on foreign soil—and looked ahead. “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,” he said. One goal? Matching Colin Montgomerie’s record with an eighth Race to Dubai title. “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 was spotted ringside at the Anthony Joshua vs. Jake Paul fight in Miami, where Paul suffered a double jaw fracture. McIlroy, of course, made time for interviews there as well.

OWGR and LIV Golf: “There’s a chance”

LIV Golf is renewing efforts to gain recognition from the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR). Trevor Immelman, who chairs the OWGR board, 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 has agreed to shift to 72-hole events and may expand its field. “The OWGR is about meritocracy—you earn your spot and fight to keep it. That’s the message we’ve been conveying to LIV,” Immelman added.

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Luke Donald’s team honored

Golf made a rare double splash at the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year awards. Alongside McIlroy’s individual win, Luke Donald’s Ryder Cup team was named Team of the Year for their victory at Bethpage Black. McIlroy accepted the award with teammate Tommy Fleetwood, while others joined virtually. Captain Donald shared his gratitude on social media.