In response to a direct question by Sky Sports about becoming ‘Sir Rory McIlroy’ one day, he said in November: “If that were ever to happen it would be an unbelievably massive honour.
“That’s obviously up to people a lot more powerful and important than me.
“But, I mean, if it were to happen one day, it would be a very proud moment in my life.”
Since not being included in the latest honours list, there has been no comment from McIlroy or anyone close to him.
He is likely to be asked about the issue by the media in the new year, at his next tournament which may be the Dubai Invitational starting on 15 January.
Among the sportsmen and women recognised in the New Year honours were Olympic gold medalist Rhys McClenaghan from Newtownards.
England women’s football coach Sarina Wiegman was made an honorary dame.
Figure skating duo Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean were given a damehood and knighthood respectively.
