Rory McIlroy named BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2025

Rory McIlroy has been named BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2025, beating F1 champion Lando Norris and rugby star Ellie Kildunne.

Rory McIlroy has been crowned BBC Sports Personality of the Year, becoming only the third golfer ever to win the prestigious award. The accolade, decided by public vote, saw McIlroy triumph over notable athletes including Formula 1 World Champion Lando Norris and rugby standout Ellie Kildunne.

“It’s an honor to be in a room with so many incredible people. 2025 has been the year of my dreams—from Augusta to the Ryder Cup and everything in between,” McIlroy said during his acceptance speech. He also thanked his family: “To my parents, if you’re watching—thank you. To my wife Erica and daughter Poppy, you are what keeps me grounded. They couldn’t be here tonight, but I can’t wait to celebrate with them.”

Reflecting on the significance of the award, McIlroy added: “I remember growing up and looking forward to watching this show every year. I’m truly honored to win. Hopefully, I’ll be in the running again next year.”

The BBC Sports Personality of the Year is the most prestigious individual sports award in British sport.

Rory McIlroy: A historic 2025 with Career Grand Slam and Ryder Cup glory

With four tournament wins, a Masters victory, a completed Career Grand Slam, and a Ryder Cup triumph, 2025 has been a landmark year for McIlroy. In April, he finally achieved the elusive Career Grand Slam by winning the Masters—his first Major title since 2014. The momentum continued into September, when he helped Team Europe secure a memorable Ryder Cup win, marking his sixth career victory in the event. The BBC award caps off a season for the ages.

Ryder Cup Team Europe named BBC Team of the Year

Team Europe also took home honors at the BBC Awards, winning Team of the Year after their historic Ryder Cup victory on American soil—their first such win since 2012. Led by captain Luke Donald, the team edged out the Women’s Euro football champions and England’s Rugby World Cup winners. This marks the seventh time a European Ryder Cup team has earned the award, and the first since 2010. McIlroy and teammate Tommy Fleetwood accepted the award on behalf of the team.

“We’re here on stage for the 12 players, but we couldn’t have done it without our captain and everyone behind the scenes,” McIlroy said.

Career Grand Slam ✅
Away Ryder Cup ✅
SPOTY ✅

What a stunning 2025 for Rory McIlroy. He needs to find more space in that trophy cabinet! 🏆