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

Rory McIlroy to Attend BBC Sports Personality of the Year

Golfer Rory McIlroy has confirmed he will attend the BBC Sports Personality of the Year ceremony this December in Manchester, marking his first appearance at the event in a decade.

The Northern Irishman has had an exceptional 2025 season, capturing the Masters title in dramatic fashion and leading Europe to a memorable Ryder Cup victory. Although this year’s list of nominees has not yet been revealed, McIlroy is widely expected to be shortlisted alongside Luke Littler, Chloe Kelly, and Lando Norris.

From Criticism to Acceptance

“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.

Despite his previous criticism, McIlroy has now changed his stance. Speaking to Telegraph Sport, he expressed optimism about attending the live event, highlighting its significance for golf and the audience it reaches.

“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,” McIlroy said with a smile.

Historic Challenge Ahead

McIlroy’s odds remain steep, as no golfer has claimed the BBC Sports Personality of the Year title since Sir Nick Faldo in 1989. Even major winners like Matt Fitzpatrick failed to make the shortlist after triumphing at the 2022 US Open.

Author’s summary: Rory McIlroy reverses his past criticism and plans to attend the BBC Sports Personality of the Year ceremony, hoping to end golf’s decades-long drought at the awards.

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The Mirror The Mirror — 2025-11-06

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