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Seconds before the announcement, a nervous worry raced through Rory McIlroy's mind. He said he was hoping, "Please don't let it be an F1 driver this time."

"Tonight represents a great night for golf," McIlroy declared. "The sport was celebrated in such a significant way, with the team winning and then with my award. It's a huge moment for golf, and perhaps we can use that."

In this instance, however, there was no dramatic upset. The verdict was uncontested, allowing a overjoyed McIlroy to reflect on a standout evening for both himself and the team winners, who were named the year's best team.

Non-Stop Adventures

Instead of opting to celebrate at the aftershow party, McIlroy was already thinking about his next sporting adventure. After played in the Golf Channel Games in Florida and flown to the UK, he was flying right back to Miami.

"It's been a whirlwind 24 hours," he said. "I am anticipating a little bit of rest over Christmas."

Unfinished Business

That said, McIlroy made clear he has no plans to slow down, even after completing the set of all four majors earlier in the year. "My belief is I've got a several strong seasons in me," he remarked.

"Additional major championships, order of merit titles, team competitions, that's the target. But if you feel like you can keep improving and have the drive, that's the key."

Collective Honor

Elsewhere, teammate Tommy Fleetwood, who was on stage to collect the team award, also applauded golf's stellar night and his close friend's personal achievement.

"Those are the times that will remain with us indefinitely so to get the public's recognition for that is really cool," he commented. "And to be there Rory win, I think he has earned it so much."

After it was noted that McIlroy was only the third golfer to win the award in its 71-year history, Fleetwood grinned before quipping, "We're not the most popular are we!"

Future Goals

His goal is to at last capture his initial major championship next year but he acknowledged McIlroy still craves more success. "Provided that you want to be the best you can be, and you're still motivated, you'll find things to enhance," the 34-year-old said.

Football Loyalty

Prior to his departure, one final question came up. A devoted Manchester United fan, he has been requested to display his trophies at Old Trafford before. Would he be persuaded to do it again after his new triumphs?

"If they quit letting in four goals at home," McIlroy responded with a laugh. "They're getting better. There's a little bit of positivity around."

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