Seconds before his name was called, a anxious thought flashed through his mind. He admitted he was hoping, "Please don't let it be a racing champion once more."
"Tonight represents a tremendous night for golf," he stated. "The sport was honored in such a major way, with the team winning and then with my award. It's a big night for golf, and hopefully we can capitalize on that."
In this instance, however, there was no last-minute surprise. The outcome was clear, allowing a thrilled McIlroy to enjoy a memorable evening for both himself and the European Ryder Cup winners, who were honored as team of the year.
A Whirlwind Schedule
Instead of opting to celebrate at the post-ceremony celebrations, McIlroy was already thinking about his next sporting adventure. After played in a tournament in Florida and jetted to the UK, he was returning immediately to Florida.
"The last 24 hours have been a frantic 24 hours," McIlroy explained. "My plan is for a little bit of downtime over Christmas."
Drive to Improve
Nevertheless, McIlroy stated he has no desire to rest on his laurels, despite completing the career grand slam earlier in the year. "I am confident I've got a more to give in me," he remarked.
"Additional major championships, order of merit titles, international events, that's great. But provided that you feel like you can keep progressing and have the desire, that's the key."
Team Triumph
At the same time, teammate Tommy Fleetwood, who was on stage to accept the team award, also applauded golf's exceptional night and his great friend's individual success.
"These become the moments that will live with us forever so to get the people's vote for that is really cool," he stated. "Seeing Rory win, I think he has earned it so much."
When reminded that McIlroy was only the third player from golf to win the award in its seven-decade run, Fleetwood grinned before quipping, "Golfers aren't top of the list are we!"
Future Goals
Fleetwood hopes to secure his maiden major next year but he recognized McIlroy still thirsts for more success. "As long as you want to be the best you can be, and you're still motivated, you'll find things to enhance," he noted.
United Hopes
As he was leaving, a last query came up. Being a massive Manchester United fan, he has been invited to show his trophies at Old Trafford before. So could he be tempted to do it again after his new triumphs?
"Provided that they quit letting in multiple scores in Manchester," he replied with a laugh. "Improvements are being made. There's a little bit of optimism around."
After a remarkable year, it's little surprise that the champion golfer is focusing on the bright side.
