Stenson caps season with writers’ award

The 37 year-old Swede topped the annual poll despite fierce competition from Justin Rose, who became the first Englishman in 43 years to win the US Open, and Europe’s Solheim Cup team, who made history by winning on American soil for the first time.

Stenson was flattered to have come out on top, and by a convincing margin as well with almost two-thirds of members of the Association of Golf Writers making him their first choice. “I think when you look at what others achieved like Justin and the Solheim Cup team it does make it mean that little bit more,” said Stenson.

“It’s a huge honour and a great reflection on the year I had. I’m looking forward to getting a few of these trophies I’ve won into the summer house in Sweden. It has been such a great year that I can have a few in Europe and a few in my house in America.

“What a great thrill it is going to be over Christmas to sit by the fire with my family and reflect on the year of my life. I have always had a very good relationship with the media.

“I have tried to be accommodating and taken my time to give decent and honest responses. I think I have been treated very fairly too. It is a give and take relationship and I’ve always understood that.”

Rose was a clear runner-up for his memorable first success in a major championship at Merion.

Making up a glittering top three were Europe’s leading women, who achieved their record-breaking success in Denver against all odds.