Rory McIlroy to Attend BBC Sports Personality Awards After Forgetting His Nomination
Golfer Rory McIlroy has decided to attend the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards this December in Manchester, marking his first appearance at the event in ten years. McIlroy reportedly forgot he was nominated for last year's awards but will now make a return in 2025.
Impressive 2025 Season for McIlroy
The Northern Irish golfer had a remarkable year, winning the Masters with dramatic flair and playing a key role in Europe's historic Ryder Cup victory. Although the official BBC SPOTY nominee list is yet to be released, McIlroy is expected to be shortlisted alongside athletes like Luke Littler, Chloe Kelly, and Lando Norris.
Change of Heart on SPOTY Attendance
"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 said in January 2024, expressing his indifference toward the event.
However, the 36-year-old has reversed his stance and confirmed he will attend the ceremony this December. 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," he added with a smile.
Challenges and History
McIlroy faces an uphill battle, as history shows no golfer has won the BBC award since Sir Nick Faldo in 1989. Additionally, Matt Fitzpatrick missed the shortlist despite winning the US Open in 2022.
Author's summary: Rory McIlroy will attend the BBC Sports Personality awards for the first time in a decade, acknowledging the benefits of engagement despite past indifference toward the nomination process.