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Seconds before his name was called, a trepidatious thought darted through Rory McIlroy's mind. He revealed he was hoping, "Please don't let it be a racing champion this time."

"It's been a tremendous night for golf," the champion said. "The sport was honored in such a major 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."

This time around, however, there was no late twist. The result was clear, allowing a thrilled McIlroy to savor a memorable evening for both himself and the continental winners, who were honored as the year's best team.

Non-Stop Adventures

But rather than stay for the post-ceremony celebrations, McIlroy was already plotting his next sporting adventure. After played in a tournament in Florida and flown to the UK, he was returning immediately to Miami.

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

Hunger for More

Nevertheless, McIlroy made clear he has no plans to become complacent, even after achieving the career grand slam earlier in the year. "I am confident I've got a few good years in me," he claimed.

"Further big titles, order of merit titles, Ryder Cups, that's the aim. But as long as you feel like you can keep getting better and have the desire, that's the key."

Team Triumph

At the same time, fellow European Tommy Fleetwood, who was on stage to accept the team award, also praised golf's stellar night and his great friend's individual success.

"They are the moments that will remain with us for all time so to get the people's vote for that is really cool," Fleetwood said. "Seeing Rory win, 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 chuckled before adding, "We're not the most popular are we!"

Looking Ahead

Fleetwood hopes to finally win his first major next year but he recognized 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 improve," the 34-year-old said.

Football Loyalty

Before McIlroy left, a last query came up. A devoted Manchester United fan, he has been invited to show his trophies at Old Trafford before. So could he be persuaded to do it again after his recent triumphs?

"If they quit letting in multiple scores in Manchester," he replied with a grin. "They're getting better. There's a little bit of positivity around."

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