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Moments before the announcement, a anxious thought darted through the golfer's mind. He admitted he was concerned, "Not an F1 driver once more."

"Tonight represents a tremendous night for golf," McIlroy declared. "Our game was celebrated in such a big way, with the team winning and then with my award. It's a huge moment for golf, and hopefully we can build upon that."

In this instance, however, there was no dramatic upset. The result was decisive, allowing a overjoyed McIlroy to enjoy a blockbuster evening for both himself and the European Ryder Cup winners, who were honored as the year's best team.

Constant Motion

Choosing not to stay for the aftershow party, McIlroy was already focusing on his upcoming event. Having just played in the Golf Channel Games in Florida and flown to the UK, he was returning immediately to Florida.

"I've had a whirlwind 24 hours," he said. "I'm looking forward to a little bit of downtime over Christmas."

Drive to Improve

However, McIlroy insisted he has no desire to become complacent, even after completing the ultimate golfing achievement earlier in the year. "I still feel I've got a more to give in me," he claimed.

"Additional major championships, order of merit titles, international events, that's the target. But provided that you feel like you can keep progressing and have the hunger, that's the most important thing."

Squad Celebration

Elsewhere, Ryder Cup partner Tommy Fleetwood, who was on stage to collect the collective trophy, also lauded golf's stellar night and his great friend's individual success.

"Those are the times that will live with us forever so to get the public's recognition for that is truly special," Fleetwood said. "Seeing Rory receive that award, I think he is so worthy so much."

Upon hearing that McIlroy was only the third in his sport to win the award in its seven-decade run, Fleetwood smiled before quipping, "We're not the most popular are we!"

Looking Ahead

Fleetwood hopes to secure his first major next year but he recognized McIlroy still thirsts for more success. "Provided that you want to be the ultimate competitor, and you're still driven, you'll find things to enhance," the 34-year-old said.

United Hopes

Prior to his departure, an additional topic arose. A devoted Manchester United fan, he has been invited to show his trophies at Old Trafford before. Would he be persuaded to do it again after his recent triumphs?

"If they stop conceding multiple scores in Manchester," McIlroy responded with a laugh. "Improvements are being made. There's a touch of hope around."

After a truly spectacular season, it's no wonder that the champion golfer is focusing on the upside.