Seconds before the announcement, a trepidatious idea raced through the golfer's mind. He admitted he was thinking, "Not an F1 driver once more."
"Tonight represents a fantastic night for golf," McIlroy declared. "The sport was honored in such a big way, with the team winning and then with my award. It's a special evening for golf, and hopefully we can use that."
In this instance, however, there was no last-minute surprise. The outcome was uncontested, allowing a overjoyed McIlroy to reflect on a blockbuster evening for both himself and the continental winners, who were honored as team of the year.
A Whirlwind Schedule
Choosing not to stay for the aftershow party, McIlroy was already plotting his upcoming event. Having just played in a tournament in Florida and flown to the UK, he was heading straight back to the sunshine state.
"It's been a frantic 24 hours," McIlroy explained. "I'm looking forward to a little bit of a break over Christmas."
Hunger for More
Nevertheless, McIlroy stated he has no plans to become complacent, despite securing the ultimate golfing achievement earlier in the year. "I am confident I've got a more to give in me," he claimed.
"Further big titles, tour championships, international events, that's the aim. But provided that you feel like you can keep progressing and have the desire, that's the key."
Collective Honor
At the same time, teammate Tommy Fleetwood, who was on stage to receive the squad honor, also lauded golf's exceptional night and his pal's individual success.
"They are the times that will remain with us for all time so to get the people's vote for that is really cool," Fleetwood said. "Seeing Rory receive that award, I think he deserves it so much."
Upon hearing that McIlroy was only the third in his sport to win the award in its long history, Fleetwood grinned before joking, "Not a very popular bunch are we!"
Future Goals
He is aiming to at last capture his first major next year but he understands McIlroy still desires more success. "If you want to be the best you can be, and you're still motivated, you'll find things to enhance," he noted.
United Hopes
Prior to his departure, a last query came up. Being a massive Manchester United fan, he has been asked to parade his trophies at Old Trafford before. So could he be tempted to do it again after his recent triumphs?
"If they quit letting in multiple scores in Manchester," McIlroy responded with a laugh. "There is progress. There's a touch of hope around."
On the back of a truly spectacular season, it's no wonder that the champion golfer is seeing the upside.
