Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy will make his first appearance at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year ceremony in over ten years, aiming to break golf's remarkable three-decade absence from the winner's podium.
The 36-year-old secured his place amongst golf's elite this April by capturing the Masters title at Augusta National.
This triumph completed his career grand slam, making him only the sixth player in history to achieve this feat.
Golf has not claimed the prestigious award since Sir Nick Faldo's victory in 1989.
Rory McIlroy said he plans on attending the SPOTY awards this year
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The sport's lengthy drought stretches back even further, with Dai Rees being the only other golfer to win the accolade in 1957.
Speaking to Telegraph Sport at Yas Links on Wednesday, McIlroy confirmed his attendance plans.
"Yeah, the plan is to go," he said. "I have more chance of winning if I'm actually there and I recognise that with the audience the show attracts it could only be a good thing for the game. I suppose if I don't win it this time, I never will."
The Northern Irishman delivered this final remark with a knowing smile. His previous brush with SPOTY glory came in 2014, when he finished runner-up to Lewis Hamilton despite becoming the first British male golfer to claim consecutive major championships in the modern era.
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Rory McIlroy had a successful year after winning The Masters and the Ryder Cup
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Despite his historic achievement, bookmakers have installed England footballer Chloe Kelly as the favourite following her starring role in the Lionesses' European Championship victory this summer.
Formula One driver Lando Norris could also emerge as a serious contender should he clinch the drivers' championship in the season's final weekend, potentially pushing McIlroy down to third in the betting odds.
The golfer's attendance marks a significant shift from his previous stance. Two years ago, he not only declined to attend when nominated but failed to provide even a recorded message.
"Whenever I saw the results, I forgot I was nominated," McIlroy revealed in January 2024.
"So that's how much I think about it. It's a popularity contest. It's not what it once was."
McIlroy's change of heart follows persuasion from both the BBC and the DP World Tour, who emphasised the positive exposure for golf amongst British audiences.
His 2025 campaign extends beyond the Masters triumph. He played a pivotal role in Europe's Ryder Cup victory in the challenging atmosphere of New York this September, whilst securing three additional tournament wins.
Golf could claim multiple honours at the December 15 ceremony in MediaCity, Salford.
Rory McIlroy won The Masters for the first time this year
| GettyTeam Europe stands as a strong candidate for the team award, whilst captain Luke Donald may be recognised as coach of the year.
McIlroy currently leads the Race to Dubai standings ahead of this week's Abu Dhabi Championship. Victory in next week's Dubai finale would secure his seventh order of merit title.