2025-12-19 12:09:50

Rory McIlroy has won the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award.

The Northern Irish golfer was honoured at Thursday’s (18.12.25) ceremony for a stellar 2025 that saw him complete the career Grand Slam by winning the Masters in April and play a key role in Europe’s Ryder Cup triumph at Bethpage Black.

McIlroy beat England rugby star Ellie Kildunne to the award, while F1 world champion Lando Norris finished in third place.

In his winning speech, the golfer said: “Wow. First of all, I would like to congratulate all of the other finalists. 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.”

McIlroy also collected the Team of the Year award alongside European team-mate Tommy Fleetwood as the Ryder Cup success was celebrated.

The five-time major champion – who became the first golfer to win SPOTY for 36 years – added: “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.”

Other winners on the night included England manager Sarina Wiegman – who led the Lionesses to glory at Euro 2025 – and striker Michelle Agyemang, who won the Young Sports Personality of the Year.

The World Sport Star went to Swedish pole vaulter Armand Duplantis while legendary French footballer Thierry Henry was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement award.

Meanwhile, the Helen Rollason Award went to Sergio Aguiar and David Stancombe – who ran the London Marathon in honour of their daughters Alice da Silva Aguiar and Elsie Dot Stancombe, who were killed during the Southport attack last year.

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