Golf:Graeme McDowell's stellar year has been recognised by the European tour after they named him as the player of the year but the Irishman will have to share the award with Germany's Martin Kaymer.
Golfing media judges were unable to separate McDowell, winner of the US Open, and Kaymer, the US PGA Champion, after a lengthy debate and European Tour chief executive George O'Grady agreed to the panel's suggestion of an unprecedented tie.
Both won four times and both were members of the victorious Ryder Cup side.
Kaymer won the Race to Dubai money list while McDowell ran him close by finishing second. Both players won their first majors in a red-letter year for Europe in which tour member Louis Oosthuizen of South Africa triumphed at the British Open and Lee Westwood replaced Tiger Woods as world number one.
A judging panel of writers and commentators debated the many merits of the pair, but when it came to the vote the result was split right down the middle.
McDowell, who beat Tiger Woods in a play-off in California on Sunday, commented: “I am truly humbled to accept this coveted award. It is the icing on the cake on what has been a very special year for myself, Martin and everyone involved in European golf.
“It is an honour to share this award with a player of Martin’s calibre. He is one of the best players of our generation and I am sure will enjoy many more successes in the years to come.
“I achieved many of my dreams this season and feel fortunate to have enjoyed some very special moments. However, the highlight of the year for me was being a part of the winning European Ryder Cup team.
“There is nothing quite like the atmosphere of the Ryder Cup and the experience of playing for both your team-mates and the European fans under the most extreme pressure. I hope that I am lucky enough to play in many more successful teams in the future.”
Kaymer said: “This has been a truly great year for me and winning this award is the perfect ending. It is recognition for my performances in 2010 and to be voted for by the golfing media, the people who watch and report on our sport throughout the year, makes me feel very proud.”