Rory McIlroy claimed the prestigious BBC Sports Personality of the Year award for 2025, with Formula 1 star Lando Norris finishing third.
The Northern Irish golfer achieved a monumental career milestone in April by winning his first Masters Tournament at Augusta National. This victory completed his career Grand Slam, making him only the sixth man and the first European to win all four major championships: the US Open, The Open, the PGA Championship, and the Masters.
McIlroy’s journey to this achievement spanned over a decade since he secured the other three majors by 2014. His place among golfing legends such as Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, and Gary Player is now firmly cemented.
READ MORE: ‘She Deserves Every Chance to Keep Fighting’ - Daughter’s Plea as Mother Battles Advanced Cancer
READ MORE: New Somerset Levels Homes Must Prioritize Local Residents, Council Rules
In addition to his individual success, McIlroy made a vital contribution to Team Europe’s Ryder Cup victory, earning three-and-a-half points during the tournament, their first win on American soil since 2012.
In the BBC Sports Personality rankings, England rugby union star Ellie Kildunne took second place, while Bristol-born Formula 1 driver Lando Norris, who grew up in Somerset, finished third.
Other notable nominees included England footballer Chloe Kelly, Lionesses goalkeeper Hannah Hampton, and rising darts star Luke Littler. The ultimate winner was decided by a public vote, reflecting wide recognition of McIlroy’s outstanding year.
This marks only the third time a golfer has won the Sports Personality of the Year award, following Dai Rees in 1957 and Nick Faldo in 1989. Meanwhile, Team Europe was honoured as Team of the Year following their Ryder Cup triumph.