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Seconds before he was crowned, a trepidatious thought flashed through his mind. He admitted he was thinking, "Please don't let it be a racing champion this time."

"It's been a great night for golf," McIlroy declared. "Golf was recognized in such a major way, with the team winning and then with my award. It's a huge moment for golf, and with any luck we can build upon that."

On this occasion, however, there was no late twist. The result was decisive, allowing a thrilled McIlroy to enjoy a memorable evening for both himself and the European Ryder Cup winners, who were named the year's best team.

A Whirlwind Schedule

Choosing not to stay for the aftershow party, McIlroy was already focusing on his next sporting adventure. After played in the Golf Channel Games in Florida and flown to the UK, he was flying right back to Miami.

"It's been a whirlwind 24 hours," he said. "My plan is for a little bit of downtime over Christmas."

Unfinished Business

That said, McIlroy insisted he has no desire to become complacent, even after achieving the set of all four majors earlier in the year. "I am confident I've got a several strong seasons in me," he remarked.

"More majors, tour championships, team competitions, that's the aim. But if you feel like you can keep improving and have the desire, that's the most important thing."

Collective Honor

Elsewhere, Ryder Cup partner Tommy Fleetwood, who was on stage to receive the team award, also applauded golf's exceptional night and his close friend's award.

"They are the moments that will live with us for all time so to get the people's vote for that is amazing," he stated. "Seeing Rory pick that up, I think he has earned it so much."

After it was noted that McIlroy was only the third golfer to win the award in its long history, Fleetwood chuckled before joking, "We're not the most popular are we!"

Looking Ahead

Fleetwood hopes to finally win his first major next year but he understands McIlroy still craves more success. "If you want to be the ultimate competitor, and you're still driven, you'll find things to work on," Fleetwood explained.

United Hopes

As he was leaving, a last query arose. A devoted Manchester United fan, he has been requested to display his trophies at Old Trafford before. Might he be persuaded to do it again after his latest triumphs?

"If they halt the flow of so many goals on their own pitch," McIlroy responded with a grin. "Improvements are being made. There's a touch of optimism around."

Following a 2025 for the ages, it's little surprise that the champion golfer is seeing the bright side.