Francesco Molinari’s incredible year continues as he was named BBC Sport Personality of the Year. The award is formerly known as the Overseas Sports Personality of the Year. It is given to the best sportsman or woman outside of the UK in 2018 after fans voting.
Molinari’s great year started in May when he won the BMW PGA Championship, which is one of the most prestigious tournaments on the European Tour schedule. In early July he won his first PGA Tour title after a dominant performance at Quicken Loans National. Only a week later he overcame the inspired Tiger Woods to win his first major. With his triumph at the Open Molinari became the first Italian major winner. His fine form continued in September where Molinari became the first European player with five points in a Ryder Cup. At the end of the season he became European Tour golfer of the year after he won the Race to Dubai.
Molinari didn’t hide his emotions and after receiving the event he said:
“It is incredible to be here, and I am very proud that so many people voted for me. It is very special to receive that recognition after a fantastic year – it is something I will think of for a long time.”
