Major target for Donald
After securing an historic money-list double, World No1 hopes 2012 represents the year he finally wins one of golf’s biggest prizes
AN EMOTIONAL Luke Donald completed an unprecedented money-list double yesterday and immediately outlined his determination to ensure 2012 marks his maiden Major victory.
The world No1 capped a sensational year in which he won four tournaments, including the World Golf Championship Match Play event and the PGA Championship at Wentworth, by claiming third place at the Dubai World Championship.
By finishing three shots behind winner Alvaro Quiros, and crucially seven strokes ahead of Rory McIlroy, Donald cemented his place at the head of the European Tour money-list, having already secured his position at the summit of the US equivalent.
Despite his historic accomplishment, a testament to his astonishing consistency, Donald has never finished better than third at a Major tournament, but he hopes this latest achievement will help propel him to even greater things next year.
“The beauty of this game is that you are always looking for ways to improve,” said the 34-year-old.
“I’d love to pick up a Major. It’s fun being number one but I know there are lots of great players chasing me and that will keep me motivated to work hard.
“I’ve played extremely solid, consistent golf all year and it’s down to a good work ethic and good people around me pushing me hard.
“I hope it will help me in my quest for a major. It feels amazing and it’s my greatest year for sure. I feel I’ve a lot to achieve, but this is something I will never forget.”
As well as a successful year, it has also been one of huge emotion for Donald, who had to cope with the sudden death of his father little more than a month ago.
“He would have been very proud and he would just give me a big hug,” Donald added. “My father hopped into my head quite a few times over the closing stretch.”
EUROPEAN TOUR | MONEY-LIST
Luke Donald (ENG) £3,632,685
Rory McIlroy (NI) £3,419,008
Martin Kaymer (GER) £2,980,642
Charl Schwartzel (RSA) £2,502,920
Lee Westwood (ENG £2,084,124
USPGA | MONEY-LIST
Luke Donald (ENG) £4,265,518
Webb Simpson (USA) £4,051,157
Nick Watney (USA) £3,376,737
K.J. Choi (KOR) £2,830,412.
Matt Kuchar (USA) £2,702,272