Rory McIlroy to make U-turn on BBC snub after nomination was 'forgotten'

Rory McIlroy Reverses Stance on BBC Sports Personality of the Year

Golfer Rory McIlroy will attend the BBC Sports Personality of the Year (SPOTY) awards this December in Manchester for the first time in ten years, despite having forgotten he was nominated last year.

The Northern Irishman has had an exceptional 2025, highlighted by a thrilling Masters victory and a key role in Europe's historic Ryder Cup win. Although the official BBC SPOTY nominee list has not yet been released, McIlroy is expected to be shortlisted alongside Luke Littler, Chloe Kelly, and Lando Norris.

Initial Criticism and Change of Heart

“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 in 2024, McIlroy expressed dismissiveness toward SPOTY, minimizing its significance to him. However, he has since acknowledged the value of attending the event in person.

Speaking to Telegraph Sport, he said:

“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.”

Historical Context

Golfers historically face an uphill battle for the BBC award. Even Matt Fitzpatrick, who won the US Open in 2022, did not make the SPOTY shortlist. No golfer has claimed the title since Sir Nick Faldo in 1989.

Summary: After initially downplaying the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards, Rory McIlroy decided to attend the 2025 ceremony, recognizing its potential positive impact on golf and his chances of winning.

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The Mirror The Mirror — 2025-11-06

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