🔗 Share this article The golfing superstar salutes Sports Personality triumph with twin accolades. Moments before he was crowned, a nervous thought raced through Rory McIlroy's mind. He said he was concerned, "Not a racing champion once more." "This has been a tremendous night for golf," McIlroy declared. "Golf was recognized in such a big way, with the team winning and then with my award. It's a special evening for golf, and hopefully we can use that." On this occasion, however, there was no dramatic upset. The verdict was uncontested, allowing a delighted McIlroy to enjoy a blockbuster evening for both himself and the continental winners, who were honored as team of the year. A Whirlwind Schedule But rather than stay for the official reception, McIlroy was already focusing on his upcoming event. After played in the Golf Channel Games in Florida and flown to the UK, he was flying right back to Florida. "The last 24 hours have been a whirlwind 24 hours," the golfer noted. "I am anticipating a little bit of downtime over Christmas." Hunger for More However, McIlroy stated he has no plans to slow down, even after achieving the ultimate golfing achievement earlier in the year. "I am confident I've got a few good years in me," he asserted. "Additional major championships, season-long rankings, Ryder Cups, that's great. But provided that you feel like you can keep improving and have the drive, that's the key." Collective Honor Meanwhile, fellow European Tommy Fleetwood, who was on stage to receive the squad honor, also praised golf's remarkable night and his close friend's individual success. "These become the times that will stay with us indefinitely so to get the public's recognition for that is truly special," Fleetwood said. "Witnessing it Rory pick that up, I think he has earned it so much." After it was noted that McIlroy was only the third player from golf to win the award in its 71-year history, Fleetwood grinned before adding, "Golfers aren't top of the list are we!" Next Targets Fleetwood hopes to secure his first major next year but he acknowledged McIlroy still craves more success. "If you want to be the best you can be, and you're still driven, you'll find things to work on," he noted. Club Support Before McIlroy left, a last query came up. Being a massive Manchester United fan, he has been requested to display his trophies at Old Trafford before. So could he be convinced to do it again after his new triumphs? "Provided that they quit letting in so many goals on their own pitch," he replied with a laugh. "Improvements are being made. There's a little bit of positivity around." Following a 2025 for the ages, it's no wonder that Rory McIlroy is looking on the bright side.