Rory McIlroy Triumphs at BBC Sports Personality of the Year
A resounding “Rory roar” filled MediaCity in Salford as Rory McIlroy became the first golfer in 36 years to clinch the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award, capping off an extraordinary year.
This honor was well-deserved for the 36-year-old, who achieved a career grand slam at the Masters in April and led Europe to a thrilling Ryder Cup win in New York despite facing significant hostility from American fans. He also won the European Order of Merit.
Reflecting on his incredible year, McIlroy said, “2025 has been the year that I made my dreams come true, from Augusta to the Ryder Cup and everywhere else in between. It truly has been a year for the ages. Thank you for voting for me as your sports personality of the year.”
In a surprising second place was England rugby player Ellie Kildunne, recognized for her pivotal role in the Red Roses’ Women’s Rugby World Cup victory, while Formula One champion Lando Norris secured third.
Golf continued to shine as Europe’s Ryder Cup squad was awarded Team of the Year following their intense match at Bethpage Black. This night belonged to McIlroy, making him only the third golfer, after Dai Rees in 1957 and Nick Faldo in 1989, to win this award.
McIlroy had previously finished on the podium in 2014 and 2023 and acknowledged that if he didn’t win this year, he might never have the chance again. This time, however, nothing could hold him back. The Masters victory was particularly crucial, as McIlroy had waited 11 years to secure another major title and had aimed to join an elite group of six golfers to achieve a career grand slam.
The emotional highlight of the event came when two fathers, whose daughters tragically died in an accident, received the Helen Rollason award for their inspirational achievements despite adversity. Their heartfelt speeches resonated deeply with the audience, including McIlroy, who noted, “Being a father of a little girl, seeing those gentlemen up there, they are heroes. It makes the good moments even more special.”
