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AN EMOTIONAL Rory McIlroy has shared the reason why his wife Erica was absent from the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards ceremony.
This marks the end of a 36-year drought for a golfer to receive the prestigious award.
Rory McIlroy after receiving the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awardCredit: PA 
Rory explained why Erica couldn’t be at the SPOTY award ceremonyCredit: Getty He flew in from Florida to Manchester on Wednesday night to receive the prestigious award.
He narrowly defeated England women’s rugby star Ellie Kildunne and F1 world champion Lando Norris, who finished second and third, respectively.
While collecting yet another significant trophy, wife Erica was not in attendance.
The 36-year-old took a moment to explain why she and their daughter Poppy couldn't be there for the special occasion.
He stated: “My wife Erica, my daughter Poppy. They are my support system; they are my rock.
“They couldn’t be here tonight; they are back in America, but I’m eager to return and celebrate with them tomorrow.
“I can’t wait to see you, I love you.
“2025 was a year filled with dreams.
“Thank you for voting for me as your Sports Personality of the Year.
“To my family, my mum and dad – they made so many sacrifices for me. I wouldn’t be here without them.
“I’m truly honored to hold this trophy and hope to compete for it again this year. It is a great honor.”
It has been an extraordinary year for Rory, who fulfilled his lifelong dreams at Augusta.
He achieved a significant milestone, becoming only the SIXTH man in history to do so.
He played a crucial role for Team Europe, earning three-and-a-half points in their triumph over Team USA in America.
McIlroy notably overcame a challenging crowd who had...
Additional victories for Rory included the Players Championship, the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, and the Irish Open, culminating in an incredible year with his seventh Race to Dubai title.
Inside Rory McIlroy's Whirlwind Love Life
Rory McIlroy previously had a high-profile relationship with former tennis world number one Caroline Wozniacki before their split in 2014.
The following year, the golf star began dating Erica Stoll, whom he first met on the PGA Tour in 2011.
Erica often interacted with players in her role as the PGA’s manager of championship volunteer operations.
She even ensured that McIlroy did not miss his tee time at the 2012 Ryder Cup due to some confusion over time zones.
This incident sparked a strong friendship between the two, four years before their relationship turned romantic.
McIlroy and Erica were seen on numerous dates in Rochester, New York, during the early stages of their relationship.
Just eight months later, the couple got engaged in Paris and tied the knot at Ashford Castle in Ireland in 2017.
Three years later, they welcomed their daughter Poppy into the world.
Throughout their relationship, McIlroy and Erica have maintained a level of privacy, with the golfer eager to shield his family from the spotlight during the filming of Netflix’s Full Swing documentary series.
However, after seven years of marriage, McIlroy filed for divorce from Erica.
The reasons for the divorce were not disclosed, but the Northern Irishman submitted documents to a court in Florida.
Shortly after, he reversed his decision to divorce.
McIlroy remarked: “Thankfully, we have resolved our differences and look forward to a new beginning.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Erica Stoll not at the awards ceremony?
Rory McIlroy explained that Erica and their daughter Poppy could not attend because they were back in America.
What significant achievements did Rory McIlroy accomplish in 2025?
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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