Jamie Donaldson was the ultimate hero as his approach, coupled with Keegan Bradley's concession, ensured a 4 and 3 success as Europe retained the Samuel Ryder trophy.
It also guaranteed McGinley his first Ryder Cup win as captain, after three successes as a player, and the Irishman was quick to praise the all-round effort from his team and backroom staff.
"Proud is the first word. I want to say as captain it's been a real honour to get these 12 players, they have all been colossal, and all of them, the caddies, the backroom team, five vice captains, it's been a huge team effort," he explained.
"It's a great sense of pride and the pride that we give to everybody, and the happiness of people in the stands, that's what you [the players] did.
"I'm giving it for everybody else, it's not for me. Playing is something very, very special, and I said to the guys last night, as much as I've enjoyed captain, it's different than playing.
"Enjoy it, be out there and enjoy it, because the days happen so quick and they go. It's been a real great honour."
Donaldson, who could scarcely have hoped for a better Ryder Cup debut, after winning three of his four matches, felt McGinley proved his capabilities as a captain throughout the weekend.
"He's been sensational," the Welshman added.
"Paul captained one of the Seve Trophys I played in and I told everybody that he was going to be unbelievable here, and he's certainly done a lot more than that.
"He's been incredible. It's been a hell of a week."