England\'s Luke Donald was named the European Tour\'s Golfer of the Year on Thursday, having earlier this week received the corresponding award in the United States from the US PGA. Both awards follow Donald\'s achievement in becoming the first player to top the money lists in America and Europe in the same season. \"To have the accolade of European Tour Golfer of the Year means an awful lot to me and I will certainly look back on this year with a lot of fond memories,\" Donald, currently competing in the Australian Masters in Melbourne, said in a statement. \"It is always nice to be appreciated, especially from the people in the sport who know the game inside out. They have recognised what I have done this year and it is very gratifying to have that validation. \"As a professional golfer you are always trying to do your best and it was good to see all the hard work I have put in coming to fruition. \"I was delighted with my game this year and it is rewarding to feel that, sometimes, consistency does pay off. \"Everyone dreams of having a year like this and I am very excited and feel fortunate that it happened to me.\" Donald\'s two awards came despite the Northern Irish duo of Rory McIlroy and Darren Clarke winning the US Open and British Open respectively, while South Africa\'s Charl Schwartzel took the US Masters. \"Rory\'s win at Congressional was amazing, as was Darren\'s success in the Open, while Charl birdieing the final four holes to win the Masters was a truly magical moment in golf,\" Donald said. \"Therefore, to be given the vote ahead of these great players who also had great years is very special indeed.\"