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Just prior to his name was called, a nervous worry raced through his mind. He revealed he was concerned, "Not an F1 driver again."

"It's been a tremendous night for golf," McIlroy declared. "Our game was honored in such a major way, with the team winning and then with my award. It's a huge moment for golf, and perhaps we can capitalize on that."

In this instance, however, there was no dramatic upset. The result was uncontested, allowing a overjoyed McIlroy to enjoy a memorable evening for both himself and the team winners, who were crowned the year's best team.

Non-Stop Adventures

Choosing not to stay for the post-ceremony celebrations, McIlroy was already thinking about his upcoming event. Having just played in the Golf Channel Games in Florida and flown to the UK, he was returning immediately to the sunshine state.

"It's been a hectic 24 hours," McIlroy explained. "I'm looking forward to a little bit of a break over Christmas."

Drive to Improve

Nevertheless, McIlroy insisted he has no plans to become complacent, even after securing the ultimate golfing achievement earlier in the year. "My belief is I've got a more to give in me," he asserted.

"Additional major championships, tour championships, international events, that's the target. But as long as you feel like you can keep improving and have the desire, that's the most important thing."

Collective Honor

Elsewhere, Ryder Cup partner Tommy Fleetwood, who was on stage to collect the team award, also praised golf's exceptional night and his close friend's personal achievement.

"They are the moments that will stay with us for all time so to get the people's vote for that is truly special," Fleetwood said. "Witnessing it Rory pick that up, 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 long history, Fleetwood smiled before joking, "We're not the most popular are we!"

Future Goals

His goal is to secure his maiden major next year but he recognized 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 enhance," Fleetwood explained.

United Hopes

Before McIlroy left, a last query came up. As a huge Manchester United fan, he has been requested to display his trophies at Old Trafford before. Might he be tempted to do it again after his recent triumphs?

"If they stop conceding so many goals on their own pitch," he replied with a smile. "Improvements are being made. There's a hint of hope around."

On the back of a remarkable year, it's little surprise that the champion golfer is looking on the upside.