Rory McIlroy capped a remarkable 2025 by winning the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award for the first time, following his Masters victory and a starring role in Europe's Ryder Cup triumph. The 36-year-old Northern Irishman topped the public vote ahead of England rugby star Ellie Kildunne and Formula 1 world champion Lando Norris.
McIlroy became only the third golfer to claim the prestigious prize, after Sir Nick Faldo in 1989, and the sixth man to complete golf's career grand slam with his Masters win in April. He also led Europe to an away Ryder Cup victory against the United States in September.
Accepting the award, McIlroy paid tribute to his family, saying: 'Thank you to my family, my mum and dad. They sacrificed so much for me. My wife, Erica. My daughter, Poppy. They are what holds me together, my rocks.' He added: '2025 has been the year that my dreams came true from Augusta to the Ryder Cup.'
McIlroy became emotional earlier in the ceremony after a segment honouring Sergio Aguiar and David Stancombe, fathers of two of the three girls killed in the Southport stabbing attack, who received the Helen Rollason Award for completing the London Marathon. Asked about being a father, McIlroy said: 'Seeing Alice's and Elsie's dad up there tonight, they are two absolute heroes.'
Europe's Ryder Cup team also won Team of the Year, while Sarina Wiegman was named Coach of the Year for the second time. Arsenal legend Thierry Henry received the Lifetime Achievement Award, and Sweden's Mondo Duplantis won World Sport Star of the Year.
