The world of golf is set for another exhilarating year following a spectacular 2025 season. With Rory McIlroy finally securing the Masters to complete his career Grand Slam and Europe clinching a memorable Ryder Cup victory on American soil, the stage is set for new dramas. As we move into 2026, the spotlight shifts to Scottie Scheffler's historic pursuit, the evolving landscape of LIV Golf, and the potential return of a legend.
Scheffler's Shot at Immortality
World number one Scottie Scheffler stands on the brink of history. After adding the US PGA Championship and The Open at Royal Portrush to his collection in 2025, he now needs only the US Open to complete his career Grand Slam. He will have his first chance to achieve this feat at Shinnecock Hills in June 2026. His quest mirrors that of Rory McIlroy, who became the first European to win all four majors with his 2025 Masters triumph. Other notable players chasing the final piece of their puzzle include Phil Mickelson, who at 55 still seeks a US Open, and Jordan Spieth, who requires the US PGA Championship.
A Defining Year for LIV Golf
The Saudi-backed LIV Golf circuit faces a critical period. With a permanent settlement with the PGA Tour still elusive, both tours are planning independent futures. LIV is implementing significant changes, switching its events to a traditional 72-hole format and expanding regular fields to 57 players. However, the shock departure of five-time major winner Brooks Koepka just before Christmas represents a substantial blow. His future playing status remains unclear, potentially involving a suspension before any PGA Tour return. The league's stability now hinges on retaining stars like Bryson DeChambeau, its only other major winner since 2022.
European Momentum and Tiger's Next Chapter
Buoyed by their Ryder Cup success, European stars are poised for individual major breakthroughs in 2026. Bob McIntyre, runner-up at the 2025 US Open, and the talented Ludvig Aberg are contenders. A poignant story would be Tommy Fleetwood winning his home Open at Royal Birkdale. Meanwhile, the fate of European Ryder Cup heroes Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton hangs in the balance as their appeals against fines for joining LIV Golf reach a conclusion; from January 1, LIV will no longer pay these penalties.
The narrative also turns to Tiger Woods. Now 50 and eligible for the senior tour, Woods is back in training after multiple operations. A return at his Genesis Open in February is possible, and he could target the US Senior Open. Off the course, his influence grows as he heads the PGA Tour's Future Competition Committee. Furthermore, 2026 is expected to bring an announcement naming Woods as the US Ryder Cup captain for the 2027 matches at Adare Manor.
