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Just prior to his name was called, a anxious idea flashed through the golfer's mind. He said he was thinking, "Please don't let it be a Formula 1 star once more."

"It's been a tremendous night for golf," the champion said. "Our game was recognized in such a significant 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 outcome was uncontested, allowing a overjoyed McIlroy to reflect on a standout evening for both himself and the European Ryder Cup winners, who were honored as the top squad.

Constant Motion

But rather than celebrate at the aftershow party, McIlroy was already focusing on his upcoming event. After played in a tournament in Florida and jetted to the UK, he was returning immediately to Florida.

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

Drive to Improve

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

"Further big titles, season-long rankings, team competitions, that's the aim. But if you feel like you can keep getting better and have the hunger, that's the key."

Team Triumph

Elsewhere, teammate Tommy Fleetwood, who was on stage to accept the squad honor, also praised golf's remarkable night and his pal's individual success.

"They are the moments that will stay with us forever so to get the public's recognition for that is really cool," Fleetwood said. "Witnessing it Rory receive that award, I think he is so worthy so much."

After it was noted that McIlroy was only the third player from golf to win the award in its 71-year history, Fleetwood smiled before joking, "We're not the most popular are we!"

Future Goals

Fleetwood hopes to at last capture his first major next year but he acknowledged McIlroy still desires more success. "As long as you want to be the greatest possible version of yourself, and you're still inspired, you'll find things to work on," he noted.

United Hopes

Before McIlroy left, one final question was raised. A devoted Manchester United fan, he has been requested to display his trophies at Old Trafford before. So could he be tempted to do it again after his recent triumphs?

"Provided that they stop conceding multiple scores in Manchester," he answered with a smile. "There is progress. There's a little bit of hope around."

After a remarkable year, it's little surprise that Rory McIlroy is seeing the upside.