Rory McIlroy Wins BBC Sports Personality of the Year, Ending 36-Year Golf Drought
Rory McIlroy has become the third golfer to win the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award and the first since Nick Faldo in 1989, ending a 36-year drought for golf in the category. McIlroy's impressive 2025 season included a Masters triumph that completed his career grand slam, leading Europe to Ryder Cup victory, and winning the European Order of Merit. During the voting reveal, Ellie Kildunne finished second and Lando Norris third, with McIlroy announced as the winner 25 minutes before the show ended.
In addition to McIlroy's individual accolade, Europe’s Ryder Cup team was named team of the year for their victory at Bethpage Black in September. Sarina Wiegman was named coach of the year for the second time following her work guiding England to success at the Women's Euros.
Armand ‘Mondo’ Duplantis won the world sports star of the year award for the second consecutive year, highlighted by multiple world records and a world championship.
Two fathers of victims from a Southport dance class, David Stancombe and Sergio da Silva Aguiar, were honored with the Helen Rollason award after raising funds through the London Marathon in memory of their daughters.
Thierry Henry received the lifetime achievement award, which was presented by his four children.
