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Moments before his name was called, a nervous worry flashed through his mind. He said he was thinking, "Please don't let it be a Formula 1 star this time."

"This has been a tremendous night for golf," McIlroy declared. "Our game was honored in such a big way, with the team winning and then with my award. It's a special evening for golf, and with any luck we can use that."

On this occasion, however, there was no dramatic upset. The outcome was clear, allowing a delighted McIlroy to reflect on a memorable evening for both himself and the continental winners, who were named the year's best team.

A Whirlwind Schedule

But rather than stay for the post-ceremony celebrations, McIlroy was already plotting his immediate plans. Having just played in a tournament in Florida and flown to the UK, he was heading straight back to the sunshine state.

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

Hunger for More

That said, McIlroy made clear he has no plans to slow down, despite completing the ultimate golfing achievement earlier in the year. "My belief is I've got a more to give in me," he remarked.

"Further big titles, order of merit titles, international events, that's the target. But as long as you feel like you can keep progressing and have the hunger, that's the most important thing."

Collective Honor

Elsewhere, 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.

"Those are the memories that will remain with us indefinitely so to get the public's recognition for that is amazing," Fleetwood said. "And to be there Rory receive that award, I think he is so worthy so much."

When reminded that McIlroy was only the third player from golf to win the award in its long history, Fleetwood chuckled before adding, "Not a very popular bunch are we!"

Next Targets

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

United Hopes

As he was leaving, a last query was raised. As a huge Manchester United fan, he has been invited to show his trophies at Old Trafford before. Might he be persuaded to do it again after his latest triumphs?

"As long as they stop conceding so many goals on their own pitch," he replied with a grin. "There is progress. There's a little bit of hope around."

On the back of a truly spectacular season, it's no wonder that he is seeing the bright side.