Ryder Cup hero Graeme McDowell has been awarded an MBE in the New Year Honours List.
McDowell, the 31-year-old golfer from Northern Ireland nicknamed GMac, began the year ranked 50 in the world but has moved swiftly up the rankings.
In June, he became the first European for 40 years to win the US Open when he triumphed at Pebble Beach and in October his five-foot putt on the 17th green at Celtic Manor saw Europe beat the USA in the Ryder Cup.
He has ended 2010 as the number six golfer in the world and with a host of awards to his name, including player of the year voted for by the US and the European golf writers.
The Portrush man said he was proud at being chosen for an MBE.
"It is a huge honour for me to be included on the New Year Honours List," he said.
"For my achievements as a professional golfer to be recognised in this way is truly special. Both myself and my family are very proud of this unique acknowledgement."
