Rory McIlroy is only the third golfer to win the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award following Sir Nick Faldo in 1989 and Dai Rees in 1957.
His year featured a win at The Masters in April after a decade of disappointment, wins at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, The Players Championship and the Amgen Irish Open as well as a seventh Race to Dubai crown.
“I think I’ve carried that burden since August 2014. It’s nearly 11 years,” said McIlroy following the Masters. “It was a heavy weight to carry, and thankfully now I don’t have to. It frees me up, and I know I’m coming back here every year, which is lovely.”
"2025 has been the year I made my dreams come true." ❤️
The perfect way to finish off an outstanding 2025 for Rory McIlroy – your BBC Sports Personality of the Year ✨ pic.twitter.com/QWOXYSRcsA
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) December 18, 2025
McIlroy was also part of the victorious Ryder Cup team who were named Team of the Year.
“First of all, I would like to congratulate all of the other finalists,” McIlroy said in his acceptance speech. “I know how much hard work and dedication it takes, so it is a pleasure to just be in this room. I feel truly honoured to just be a part of it.
“2025 has been the year I made my dreams come true. From Augusta to the Ryder Cup and everything in between. It’s the year dreams are made of.
“I have a lot of people to thank. Firstly, the public, my family, my mum and my dad. They sacrificed so much for me. I wouldn’t be here without them, so thank you. My wife Erica and my daughter Poppy, they are what holds me together. My rock. They couldn’t be here tonight but I can’t wait to get back tomorrow and celebrate this with them. I love you.
“And to the BBC for hosting these awards. It has always been something growing up that I watched on TV. It was always a big part of the run up to Christmas, so I am very honoured to get my hands on this trophy. Hopefully I can challenge to get it again next year!
“Thank you everyone. It truly is an honour.”
Want to be like Rory? Listen carefully! pic.twitter.com/ua7tO5Hfj1
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) December 18, 2025
