Rory McIlroy confirms reason wife Erica Stoll missed his latest award win
Rory McIlroy has disclosed that his wife, Erica Stoll, and daughter, Poppy, were absent for his BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2025 triumph. He revealed that the duo remained in the United States while the golf icon is scheduled to reunite with them on Friday following his festivities in Salford.
McIlroy wrapped up an incredible 2025 with one last accolade, defeating contenders including F1 world champion Lando Norris and darts phenom Luke Littler. The Northern Irishman finally captured the Masters this year to achieve a career Grand Slam before contributing to Europe’s triumph in the Ryder Cup.
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The 36 year old, alongside Tommy Fleetwood, also received the Team of the Year honor during a triumphant evening. McIlroy honored his fellow contenders and family while acknowledging the influence Erica and Poppy had on his remarkable year.
“First of all I’d like to congratulate the other finalists, I know how much hard work and dedication it takes,” said McIlroy on stage. “It’s a pleasure just to be in this room and I feel honoured just to be a part, so congratulations.
“Look 2025 was the year I made my dreams come true, from Augusta to the Ryder Cup and everything in between. It really has been the year that dreams are made of.”, reports the Mirror.
“I have a lot of people to thank, firstly the public for voting for me, but my family, my mum and dad. They sacrificed so much for me and I wouldn’t be here without them. Thank you.
“My wife Erica, my daughter Poppy. They’re what holds me together, they’re my rock.
“They couldn’t be here tonight, they are back in America, but I can’t wait to get back to see them tomorrow and celebrate with them. I can’t wait to see you, I love you.”
Before the award announcement, McIlroy was asked about how fatherhood has shifted his perspective.
He expressed his deep respect for Sergio Aguiar and David Stancombe, two fathers who ran the London Marathon in memory of their daughters, Elsie Dot Stancombe, Alice da Silva Aguiar and Bebe King, who tragically lost their lives at a Taylor Swift-themed dance workshop in Southport in July 2024.
“I think being a father of a little girl, seeing the dads up there tonight, they are absolute heroes,” said McIlroy.
“Being a dad, it makes the losses a lot easier. It makes the wins even more special to be able to share that with Erica [wife] and Poppy [daughter].
“My family, they’ve watched me go through all of this like I’m sure a lot of the public has. I feel like everyone’s been on this journey with me.”
