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Seconds before he was crowned, a anxious idea flashed through the golfer's mind. He revealed he was thinking, "Please don't let it be a Formula 1 star this time."

"Tonight represents a great night for golf," McIlroy declared. "Golf was honored in such a major way, with the team winning and then with my award. It's a huge moment for golf, and perhaps we can capitalize on that."

On this occasion, however, there was no late twist. The result was uncontested, allowing a overjoyed McIlroy to enjoy a standout evening for both himself and the European Ryder Cup winners, who were named the top squad.

Non-Stop Adventures

Choosing not to attend the post-ceremony celebrations, 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 frantic 24 hours," the golfer noted. "I'm looking forward to a little bit of downtime over Christmas."

Drive to Improve

That said, McIlroy stated he has no plans to become complacent, despite achieving the ultimate golfing achievement earlier in the year. "I am confident I've got a more to give in me," he asserted.

"More majors, tour championships, team competitions, that's great. But provided that you feel like you can keep getting better and have the drive, that's the most important thing."

Squad Celebration

Meanwhile, Ryder Cup partner Tommy Fleetwood, who was on stage to accept the collective trophy, also applauded golf's exceptional night and his pal's personal achievement.

"They are the times that will stay with us forever so to get the people's vote for that is truly special," he commented. "And to be there Rory receive that award, I think he deserves it so much."

When reminded that McIlroy was only the third player from golf to win the award in its 71-year history, Fleetwood smiled before adding, "Golfers aren't top of the list are we!"

Next Targets

His goal is to finally win his first major next year but he understands McIlroy still thirsts for more success. "Provided that you want to be the ultimate competitor, and you're still driven, you'll find things to work on," the 34-year-old said.

Football Loyalty

Before McIlroy left, an additional topic arose. Being a massive Manchester United fan, he has been asked to parade his trophies at Old Trafford before. Might he be convinced to do it again after his recent triumphs?

"If they halt the flow of multiple scores in Manchester," McIlroy responded with a smile. "Improvements are being made. There's a hint of optimism around."

On the back of a 2025 for the ages, it's no wonder that the champion golfer is seeing the upside.