Rory McIlroy to Make U-Turn on BBC Snub After Forgotten Nomination
Golfer Rory McIlroy has confirmed he will attend the BBC Sports Personality of the Year ceremony this December in Manchester, marking his first appearance at the event in ten years. The Northern Irishman has had an exceptional 2025 season, highlighted by a dramatic Masters victory and a key role in Europe’s historic Ryder Cup triumph.
Nomination and Expectations
Although the official BBC shortlist has yet to be revealed, McIlroy is widely expected to feature among the top nominees, alongside Luke Littler, Chloe Kelly, and Lando Norris.
Change in Attitude Toward 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.”
McIlroy made these remarks in January 2024, showing clear indifference to the competition. However, his perspective has since shifted.
Confirmed Attendance for 2025 Ceremony
“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.”
McIlroy acknowledged that his presence could help promote golf to a wider audience, taking the opportunity to represent the sport positively on one of Britain’s biggest sporting stages.
Historical Context
No golfer has claimed the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award since Sir Nick Faldo in 1989. Even Matt Fitzpatrick, despite his US Open win in 2022, failed to make the shortlist, underscoring the challenge McIlroy faces.
Author’s summary: McIlroy returns to BBC SPOTY after a decade, aiming to spotlight golf's appeal and overturn a 36-year drought since the last golfing winner.