Padraig Harrington has been named The 2008 European Tour Golfer of the Year, capping a remarkable season in which the Irishman took his Major tally to three.
Harrington became the first European to successfully defend the Open Championship since James Braid in 1905-06, and was the first European to win the US PGA since Tommy Armour in 1930.
“When you look at the names of the people who have won The European Tour Golfer of the Year over the past 23 seasons, it certainly shows the standing of the award in the world of golf,” said Harrington.
Robert Karlsson denied the 37-year-old the Harry Vardon Trophy by topping the Money List, but the Dubliner was full of praise for his rival.
“He is a nice guy and he played great golf all year. This has shown the quality of his play and how much he has improved over the years and so, as much as I would have liked to have won it, I am thrilled that he did,” said Harrington.
The 2008 European Tour Golfer of the Year Award is voted for by a panel comprising representatives of the Association of Golf Writers (AGW), television, radio and the European Tour.
European Tour Golfer of the Year Award winners:
Colin Montgomerie (4): 1995, ‘96, ‘97, ‘99 Seve Ballesteros (3): 1986, ’88, 1991 Ernie Els (3): 1994, 2002, ‘03 Nick Faldo (3): 1989, 1990, ‘92 Padraig Harrington (2): 2007, ‘08 Bernhard Langer (2): 1985, 1993 Lee Westwood (2): 1998, 2000 Michael Campbell: 2005 Paul Casey: 2006 Retief Goosen: 2001 Vijay Singh: 2004 Ian Woosnam: 1987
Where next?
News: Padraig Harrington wins The European Tour Shot of the Year
Gallery: European Tour Player of the Year winners
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