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Seconds before the announcement, a nervous thought darted through Rory McIlroy's mind. He admitted he was concerned, "Please don't let it be an F1 driver again."

"Tonight represents a tremendous night for golf," he stated. "Our game was celebrated in such a significant way, with the team winning and then with my award. It's a special evening for golf, and hopefully we can use that."

On this occasion, however, there was no last-minute surprise. The outcome was decisive, allowing a overjoyed McIlroy to enjoy a memorable evening for both himself and the European Ryder Cup winners, who were honored as team of the year.

Constant Motion

Instead of opting to attend the official reception, McIlroy was already thinking about his next sporting adventure. After played in the Golf Channel Games in Florida and jetted to the UK, he was flying right back to Florida.

"The last 24 hours have been a whirlwind 24 hours," McIlroy explained. "I'm looking forward to a little bit of a break over Christmas."

Hunger for More

That said, McIlroy insisted he has no intention to slow down, even after achieving the ultimate golfing achievement earlier in the year. "I still feel I've got a few good years in me," he claimed.

"Additional major championships, tour championships, Ryder Cups, that's great. But as long as you feel like you can keep getting better and have the hunger, that's the most important thing."

Team Triumph

At the same time, Ryder Cup partner Tommy Fleetwood, who was on stage to receive the team award, also applauded golf's exceptional night and his great friend's award.

"They are the moments that will live with us indefinitely so to get the public's recognition for that is really cool," he commented. "And to be there Rory receive that award, I think he deserves it so much."

When reminded that McIlroy was only the third in his sport to win the award in its seven-decade run, Fleetwood grinned before adding, "We're not the most popular are we!"

Future Goals

He is aiming to at last capture his maiden major next year but he acknowledged McIlroy still thirsts for more success. "If you want to be the best you can be, and you're still driven, you'll find things to work on," the 34-year-old said.

Club Support

As he was leaving, an additional topic arose. As a huge Manchester United fan, he has been invited to show his trophies at Old Trafford before. Might he be convinced to do it again after his latest triumphs?

"Provided that they stop conceding multiple scores in Manchester," he replied with a grin. "There is progress. There's a touch of hope around."

On the back of a remarkable year, it's understandable that he is seeing the positive aspects.