Rory McIlroy Reverses BBC Snub to Attend Sports Personality Awards
Golfer Rory McIlroy will attend the BBC Sports Personality of the Year ceremony in Manchester this December, marking his first appearance in a decade. This decision comes despite McIlroy having forgotten he was nominated for last year's awards.
The Northern Irish golfer enjoyed a remarkable 2025, highlighted by his dramatic Masters victory and a standout performance for Europe in a memorable Ryder Cup win.
Although the official list of nominees for the BBC SPOTY has not been released, McIlroy is expected to be shortlisted alongside Luke Littler, Chloe Kelly, and Lando Norris.
Initial Dismissal of SPOTY
"Whenever I saw the results, I forgot I was nominated. So that's how much I think about it. It's not what it once was."
— Rory McIlroy, January 2024
Earlier this year, McIlroy expressed indifference toward the award, indicating a lack of enthusiasm for SPOTY.
Changed Stance for 2025
Now, at 36, McIlroy has changed his mind, confirming his attendance for the live event, stating:
"Yeah, the plan is to go. I have more chance of winning if I’m actually there and I recognise that with the audience the show attracts it could only be a good thing for the game. I suppose if I don’t win it this time, I never will."
— Rory McIlroy
McIlroy's history with the award is challenging; for example, Matt Fitzpatrick was never shortlisted despite his US Open win in 2022. No golfer has claimed the BBC award since Sir Nick Faldo in 1989.
Summary
Rory McIlroy's decision to attend the BBC Sports Personality awards underlines his renewed engagement with the sport's broader recognition platforms after previously dismissing the event.