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

Rory McIlroy to Attend BBC Sports Personality Awards After Initial Snub

Rory McIlroy will join the BBC Sports Personality of the Year ceremony this December in Manchester, marking his first attendance in ten years despite previously forgetting his nomination last year.

Successful 2025 Season

The Northern Irish golfer had an outstanding 2025, highlighted by a thrilling victory at the Masters and a strong performance in Europe's historic Ryder Cup win.

Expected Nomination

Although the official BBC Sports Personality of the Year (SPOTY) nominees are still to be announced, McIlroy is anticipated to be shortlisted alongside Luke Littler, Chloe Kelly, and Lando Norris.

Earlier Comments on 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 expressed this dismissive view in January 2024, reflecting a lack of interest in the award at the time.

Change of Heart

Now 36, McIlroy has reversed his stance and confirmed his attendance at the December 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."

Historical Context

Golfers have struggled to win the BBC award recently; for example, Matt Fitzpatrick missed the shortlist despite his 2022 US Open victory. The last golfer to win was Sir Nick Faldo in 1989.

McIlroy’s decision to attend reflects his renewed appreciation for the event’s importance and its impact on promoting golf.

The Mirror — 2025-11-06