Became World Number One for the first time in May 2011 in spectacular fashion, beating Lee Westwood in a play-off to win the BMW PGA Championship, a title he successfully defended in 2012.

Became the first player to win the money lists on both sides of the Atlantic at the end of an incredible 2011 campaign. He required a victory in the final event of the PGA TOUR season and he duly claimed the title to secure the remarkable achievement.

Has a superb record in team events, specifically in The Ryder Cup with a points total of 10.5 in four appearances. Those points included two for José María Olazábal's team in the Miracle at Medinah in 2012, three out of four points for Colin Montgomerie's team in 2010, while he held a 100% record in the 2006 matches at the K Club.

Twice named a Vice Captain for Team Europe at the Ryder Cup, first in 2018 and then at the rescheduled 2020 Ryder Cup at Whistling Straits.

Was made an Honorary Life Member of the European Tour in 2012.

Earned a degree in art theory and practice at Northwestern University in Chicago.