We delve into golf’s biggest headlines this week, including Rory McIlroy’s emotional post-tournament speech
Fasika Zelealem Senior Sports Reporter
11:25, 18 Nov 2025
It was a bittersweet weekend for Rory McIlroy(Image: Getty Images)
Rory McIlroy endured a rollercoaster weekend at the DP World Tour Championship, experiencing both heartbreak and triumph in equal measure.
The Northern Irishman narrowly missed out on claiming the title for a fourth time after losing to Matt Fitzpatrick in a dramatic play-off. However, the defeat was tempered by a significant achievement for the 36-year-old, who secured his fourth consecutive Race to Dubai crown and seventh overall.
The accomplishment proved particularly poignant for the Masters winner, who struggled to contain his emotions. McIlroy’s success came during a weekend that also saw the unexpected retirement of one prominent player, whilst six-time major winner Phil Mickelson revealed his character through a short social media post.
We round up the latest developments making waves in the golfing world.
McIlroy’s emotional moment
Whilst McIlroy fell short in the DP World Tour Championship, he reached another significant landmark in his distinguished career on Sunday. By claiming his seventh Race to Dubai title, the Northern Irishman surpassed golfing legend Seve Ballesteros, who secured six.
Rory McIlroy had to hold back tears after winning the Race for Dubai title(Image: Sky Sports)
Yet despite the celebratory nature of the moment, the 36 year old fought back tears whilst discussing his accomplishment, revealing he had spoken with the Spanish icon’s widow. Speaking to Sky Sports, McIlroy said: “It’s amazing, I had a conversation with his [Ballesteros] wife Carmen before I went out to play today and she told me how proud he would have been.
“I said this on this green last year, he means so much to this tour and to the European Ryder Cup team. We rally so much around his spirit and his quotes and everything he meant for European golf. To equal him last year was cool but to pass him this year… didn’t get this far in my dreams. It’s very cool.”
Surprise retirement
Despite being just 30 years of age, LPGA star Elizabeth Szokol has stunned the golfing world by announcing her retirement following her participation at The Annika. The American golfer revealed her decision to hang up her clubs after completing the second round at Pelican Golf Club.
Szokol narrowly missed the cut at the tournament by a single stroke but expressed gratitude at finishing her professional career in familiar surroundings with loved ones present. Speaking after the event, which was claimed by Linn Grant, she said: “It’s hard to believe it’s been nine years playing, which is pretty crazy.
The LPGA star announced her retirement on Friday(Image: Getty Images)
“It was great to retire at home, a golf course I’m a member of, and had so many family and friends out today. So it was pretty special. Would’ve liked one more putt to go in, but that’s all right. I can look back at a successful career.”
Szokol cited persistent injuries and the relentless travel schedule as the primary factors behind her decision to step away, revealing she reached her conclusion in July. She explained: “I’ve had a lot of lingering injuries, and the travel got a bit old for me, so I just kind of missed being home,” she explained.
“I would say in July I pretty much made my decision, but knew probably the last two years it was likely going to be my last year playing. July kind of solidified it.”
Mickelson’s message
Laurie Canter departed the DP World Tour in 2022 to join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf series, becoming part of a significant wave of players making the switch. His stint with the breakaway circuit concluded in 2024 when Anthony Kim replaced him as a wild card selection.
Laurie Canter re-gained his PGA Tour card (Image: AFP via Getty Images)
The 36-year-old subsequently rejoined the DP World Tour that same year, claiming two tournament victories before posting a -12 finish at the DP World Tour Championship. The Englishman was amongst 10 DP World Tour professionals who secured their PGA Tour cards for 2026 on Sunday, marking a return to the prestigious circuit for Canter.
Following the announcement, six-time major winner and LIV Golf star Phil Mickelson praised his former colleague’s accomplishment. ‘Lefty’ posted on X: “He has worked endlessly on his game and his success is well deserved.”
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