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McIlroy recognised by European Tour

Rory McIlroy had a fine year © PA Photos

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Rory McIlroy has been named European Tour player of the year for 2012, adding the accolade to the PGA Tour gong he received earlier this month.

McIlroy won twice on the European Tour in 2012 - with the US PGA Championship co-sanctioned by both major tours - as he cemented his status as the world No. 1 over the course of the campaign. He also won the money lists on both the European and PGA Tours - replicating Luke Donald's feat from 2011.

The high level of his performances was duly noted by the judging panel.

"Everyone who knows me knows how special the 2012 season was," said McIlroy. "A couple of wins, including a major, and consistent performances in big events all helped me win the Race to Dubai for the first time. To win that was a massive highlight of an amazing season, and I hope it will be the first of many.

"Now, to have been named as The European Tour Golfer of the Year puts the icing on the cake.

"It is a very special honour indeed and you only need to look down the list of players who have preceded me as the winner of this award to see precisely why - quite simply, it is a Who's Who of golf and I'm delighted to now be a part of that in the history books.

"We play golf because we relish the opportunity to win major championships and world-class tournaments around the globe. But when we do that, to be recognised for these achievements is a great thrill and I thank all the members of the panel who voted for me."

Elsewhere, there was good news for Colin Montgomerie - after it was announced that the Scot is one of two active players who will be inducted into golf's Hall of Fame next year.

Fred Couples is the other man set to receive the honour.

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