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Moments before the announcement, a nervous thought darted through Rory McIlroy's mind. He said he was hoping, "Please don't let it be a racing champion once more."

"Tonight represents a fantastic night for golf," he stated. "The sport was recognized in such a big way, with the team winning and then with my award. It's a special evening for golf, and perhaps we can capitalize on that."

In this instance, however, there was no dramatic upset. The result was uncontested, allowing a thrilled McIlroy to savor a standout evening for both himself and the team winners, who were honored as team of the year.

A Whirlwind Schedule

But rather than stay for the aftershow party, McIlroy was already plotting his upcoming event. Having just played in the Golf Channel Games in Florida and jetted to the UK, he was returning immediately to Florida.

"The last 24 hours have been a frantic 24 hours," he said. "My plan is for a little bit of downtime over Christmas."

Unfinished Business

That said, McIlroy made clear he has no plans to slow down, notwithstanding achieving the ultimate golfing achievement earlier in the year. "I still feel I've got a more to give in me," he asserted.

"More majors, tour championships, team competitions, that's great. But as long as you feel like you can keep progressing and have the hunger, that's the essential part."

Squad Celebration

Meanwhile, teammate Tommy Fleetwood, who was on stage to accept the team award, also lauded golf's remarkable night and his close friend's individual success.

"These become the moments that will stay with us forever so to get the people's vote for that is amazing," Fleetwood said. "And to be there Rory win, I think he has earned it so much."

When reminded that McIlroy was only the third in his sport to win the award in its 71-year history, Fleetwood chuckled before joking, "Not a very popular bunch are we!"

Future Goals

He is aiming to secure his maiden major next year but he understands McIlroy still desires more success. "Provided that you want to be the greatest possible version of yourself, and you're still driven, you'll find things to work on," he noted.

Football Loyalty

Before McIlroy left, one final question came up. As a huge Manchester United fan, he has been asked to parade his trophies at Old Trafford before. So could he be convinced to do it again after his new triumphs?

"As long as they stop conceding so many goals on their own pitch," McIlroy responded with a laugh. "They're getting better. There's a little bit of optimism around."

On the back of a remarkable year, it's little surprise that the champion golfer is seeing the bright side.