American Peter Uihlein is R&A's top amateur

American Peter Uihlein will receive the 2010 Mark H McCormack Medal in honour of his status as the world's No 1 amateur, the Royal & Ancient said yesterday.

The 21-year-old cemented his place at the top of the rankings by clinching the US amateur championship on Sunday with a 4&2 victory over compatriot David Chung.

After going three up over the first five holes, Uihlein never relinquished his grip in the 36-hole final at Chambers Bay in Washington state.

Both Uihlein and Chang each earned exemptions into next year's US Masters and US Open, as long as they retain their amateur status. As US amateur champion, Uihlein also booked his place at next year's Open.