England's Justin Rose won the Johnnie Walker Young Golfer of the Year Award for 2002, it was announced in Perth on Sunday.

Ahead of the final round of the Johnnie Walker Classic at Lake Karrinyup, organisers said Rose, had been rewarded for his outstanding season.

Rose, 22, who won four times around the world last year on three continents, won from Spain's Sergio Garcia, the 2001 winner.

"This is a wonderful thrill," said Rose, who won twice on the European Tour, on the Sunshine Tour in the Nashua Masters and on the Japanese Tour, in The Crowns tournament.

"I have to say I don't feel young any more," he added after being presented with the award by Garcia.

"My professional career got off to a bit of a rollercoaster start - but I have always appreciated the support from everyone to help me get where I am.

"I had no idea I was going to be presented with this, and it is a wonderful thrill."

Rose faced competition for the title from Australia's Adam Scott and American Charles Howell III.

The Englishman ended the 2002 season in ninth spot on the Volvo Order of Merit, his best ranking since he turned professional in 1998.

He was presented with the award Saturday, organisers said.

Korean Choi Kyung-ju was awarded the Johnnie Walker Asian Golfer of the Year Award.