World Number One
The World Number 1 in golf has changed hands three times in 2011 with Lee Westwood, Martin Kaymer and Luke Donald all holding the position at some point. Luke Donald’s consistency has taken him clear of a chasing back that has been re-invigorated in the last few weeks. Lee Westwood is the only player in the top five who has gone backwards in total points in 2011 having had a fantastic 2009/10.
Whilst many golf fans struggle to reconcile Luke Donald’s lack of major titles and his position as World Number 1, his dominance on both the European and PGA Tours has led to his unequivocal position at the top of the rankings. The Beaconsfield golfer has excelled in his two toughest moments; when needing a remarkable final round 64 to win in Florida this October to secure the number 1 spot on the PGA Tour and defeating Lee Westwood at Wentworth in a play-off. His ability to rise to the occasion is what makes him a deserved Number 1 despite his lack of major success.
Rory McIlroy the current world number two who won the US Open in such dominant style struggled for the second half of the season until his win in Shanghai which was the richest event in golf. Having split with his manager McIlroy will be desperate for a good start to 2012 with the Masters definitely within his sights. A course that favours McIlroy’s natural draw, he is well placed to improve on last year’s disastrous final round and pick up his second major.
Martin Kaymer may be three years McIlroy’s senior but he has already won 18 professional events (seven more than Donald and fourteen more than McIlory) including one major title. As the incumbent number one at the start of the season Kaymer was well set to stretch his lead but decided to change his natural shape to a draw in order to win the Masters. His swing and game has struggled ever since and he has endured a tough 2011. Things look finally on the up now after his win at the WGC event in Shanghai. A lot is expected of Kaymer in 2012 and hopefully he will be part of a thrilling narrative in the New Year.
The golfing year is nearing an end and most eyes are turned towards a long break and then getting their game in shape for the masters in 2012. These four golfers are set to dominate the next five years and with Americans like Rickie Fowler, Dustin Johnson and Matt Kuchar we are set for a real battle of the young boys. One to watch out for though is Jason Day who performed strongly across the majors in 2011 and will be looking to close one out in 2012.
