Rory McIlroy Named RTÉ Sportsperson of the Year for 2025

Rory McIlroy has been named RTÉ Sportsperson of the Year for 2025, capping a landmark season for the world number two.

The 36-year-old made history in April by winning The Masters at Augusta, becoming only the sixth golfer to complete a career Grand Slam. The victory marked one of the defining moments in Irish sport this year.

McIlroy also played a key role in Europe’s Ryder Cup triumph over the United States at Bethpage Black, further strengthening his case for the award.

Third RTÉ Award for McIlroy

This is the third time McIlroy has received the honour, having previously won in 2011 and 2014. Earlier this week, he was also named BBC Sports Personality of the Year, underlining his dominance across the sporting landscape in 2025.

Strong Field of Nominees

McIlroy topped a competitive shortlist that included Aoife O'Rourke, Ben Healy, David Clifford, Fiona Murtagh, Katie McCabe, Kate O'Connor, Lara Gillespie, Orla Comerford, Róisín Ní Riain, Sarah Healy, and Troy Parrott.

Major Awards on the Night

Earlier in the ceremony, John Shortt was named Young Sportsperson of the Year. The Galway swimmer claimed gold in the 200m backstroke at the European Short Course Championships and secured two world junior titles during the summer.

The Kerry footballers collected Team of the Year honours after winning their 39th All-Ireland senior football title, defeating Donegal in July. Kerry also lifted the National League title in a season shaped by the introduction of new Gaelic football rules.

Stephen Bradley won Manager of the Year after guiding Shamrock Rovers to their first league and cup double since 1987. Rovers also qualified for the UEFA Conference League group stage.

Hall of Fame Induction

Former Ireland and British & Irish Lions hooker Ciarán Fitzgerald was inducted into the RTÉ Sport Hall of Fame, recognising his contribution to Irish rugby.