The glittering BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards for 2025 were held at MediaCityUK in Salford on Thursday evening, crowning Northern Irish golf star Rory McIlroy as the winner of the coveted public-voted prize.
A Night of Celebration and Surprise Snubs
Hosted by the presenting trio of Clare Balding, Gabby Logan, and Alex Scott, the ceremony honoured the year's finest sporting achievements. McIlroy's victory marked his first time winning the main award, capping off a stellar year. However, the night also saw a double disappointment for darts sensation Luke Littler, who missed out on both the main award and the Young Sports Personality title, the latter won by footballer Michelle Agyemang.
Key Winners and Emotional Tributes
The Team of the Year award went to Luke Donald's Team Europe, recognised for their emphatic Ryder Cup victory at Bethpage Black. McIlroy and teammate Tommy Fleetwood collected the trophy. Sarina Wiegman was named Coach of the Year after guiding the England Lionesses to a successful Euro 2025 title defence.
Other honourees included Arsenal legend Thierry Henry, who received the Lifetime Achievement award, and pole vaulter Armand Duplantis, crowned World Sports Star. A poignant moment saw the Bantam of the Opera choir perform a tribute to sporting figures lost in the past year, including footballer Diogo Jota and boxer Ricky Hatton.
The Final Shortlist and McIlroy's Triumph
After a shortlist featuring Littler, footballer Chloe Kelly, goalkeeper Hannah Hampton, racing driver Lando Norris, rugby star Ellie Kildunne, and McIlroy, voting was paused to announce a final three: McIlroy, Kildunne, and Norris. Ultimately, the 36-year-old golfer emerged victorious. In his acceptance speech, McIlroy thanked voters, his family, friends, and the BBC, describing the win as a special honour.
Notably absent was Luke Littler, who was in training for the upcoming PDC World Darts Championship. His non-attendance, coupled with Agyemang's win in the youth category, meant the teenage darting prodigy left the 2025 ceremony without an award.
