Rory McIlroy has been named BBC Sports Personality of the Year for the first time, capping a remarkable 2025 season in which he won the Masters and led Europe to Ryder Cup victory. The 36-year-old Northern Irishman becomes just the third golfer to claim the prestigious award, following Dai Rees and Sir Nick Faldo.
McIlroy topped the public vote ahead of England rugby star Ellie Kildunne, who finished second after helping the Red Roses win the Women's Rugby World Cup, and newly-crowned Formula 1 world champion Lando Norris, who came third. The shortlist also included Lionesses stars Chloe Kelly and Hannah Hampton, and world darts champion Luke Littler.
The European Ryder Cup team, captained by McIlroy, also won the Team of the Year award in a public vote, beating the Red Roses and the Lionesses. England women's football team were recognised elsewhere, with Sarina Wiegman named Coach of the Year and breakout striker Michelle Agyemang winning Young Sports Personality of the Year.
Arsenal legend Thierry Henry received the Lifetime Achievement Award, while Sweden's pole vaulter Mondo Duplantis claimed his second consecutive World Sport Star of the Year award. McIlroy, who completed golf's career grand slam with his Masters win in April, described his year as 'a dream come true' as he accepted the trophy.
