Rory McIlroy’s peers have been quick to praise the Northern Irishman after he was confirmed as winner of the Race to Dubai and the youngest winner of the Harry Vardon Trophy since 1980.
Luke Donald, whose historic feat of winning the money lists on both sides of the Atlantic in 2011 was matched by McIlroy, was one of the first to offer his congratulations when he tweeted: “Congrats @McIlroyRory on winning both money lists, impressive playing!”
McIlroy’s close friend and fellow Northern IrishmanGraeme McDowelltweeted:“@LukeDonald@McIlroyRory winning US and Euro money lists back to back years. So impressive.”
Eight-time European Number OneColin Montgomerietold the Daily Record: “What Rory has achieved this year has been absolutely fantastic.
“Last year when Donald won both money lists everyone thought ‘how good was that’ but now Rory’s done it and won the US PGA as well.
“He’s a worthy World Number One and is still only 23. He has so much talent and ability you have to think the sky’s the limit as to what he can achieve.”
Matteo Manassero, who won his third title as a teenager by winning the Barclay’s Singapore Open at Sentosa Golf Club on Sunday, was full of admiration for the World Number One.
“He’s the best player in the world, and he plays a game that nobody else can really match him,” he said. “He’s so naturally talented that when he’s on his game, nobody can really compete with him. We’ve always known what a great player he is, but now he’s added consistency and a really strong mental game, which is a frightening combination for the rest of us.
“It’s obviously inspiring to see what he’s achieved already in his career, and he’s only 23.”
McIlroy’s Ryder Cup teammate and another former European Number One,Justin Rosetweeted:“@McIlroyRory@ManasseroMatteo Boys, great respective weeks! Rors, great achievement fella. Manny, still only 19?!! Now I do feel old!”
Rafael Cabrera Bellotweeted: “Congrats to @McIlroyRory #1 R2Dubai, #1 PGA #1 in the world...... What a player!! Unbelievable year!!!”
Thorbjørn Olesenwas another young player clearly inspired as he tweeted. “What a great year very impressive @McIlroyRory congrats on winning PGA and R2D!! Very nice win for @ManasseroMatteo what a star!!”
The greatGary Player, who matched his nine regular Majors with nine Senior Majors, sent a message saying: “Well done @McIlroyRory for winning both the Euro & USA money titles this year. What a fabulous season you have had. Best”
And McIlroy’s girlfriend, former World Number One tennis star,Caroline Wozniacki, tweeted: “Congrats to my superstar boyfriend @McIlroyRory for grabbing both money titles this year! Unbelievable achievement, what a year!”
