Padraig Harrington celebrates after winning Sunday's play-off

Harrington pocketed �283,000 for his Irish victory and will bank another �494,000 if he wins on the West Course.

That would then trigger the bonus payment for winning the two events, amounting to winnings of �1,459,000.

"Each event stands alone as a great title but it's nice to know there is a bonus for winning both," he said.

No-one has previously won the two titles back to back as the tournaments have historically been played in different months, but Seve Ballesteros (1983), Bernhard Langer (1987) and Ian Woosnam (1988) have all captured the titles in the same season.

"These are two great weeks on the European Tour Schedule and I always look forward to them immensely," added the Ryder Cup star.

"I think the bonus and associated prizes like that add to the excitement and the buzz of an event."

SPORT EDITORS' BLOG The West Course at Wentworth is one of the most challenging to cover, mainly due to its heavy tree-lined design Paul Davies, TV Golf editor

Harrington heads to Wentworth aiming to become the first Irish winner since Harry Bradshaw 49 years ago.

The Dubliner topped the Order of Merit last year and won what he classes as his 'fifth major' in his homeland thanks to a play-off success over Bradley Dredge at Adare Manor.

It is no surprise that Harrington is full of confidence as he prepares to take on a star-studded field.

"Coming back to Wentworth as number one in Europe makes me very proud and, yes, you unquestionably walk a bit taller," he said.

"Winning any European Tour title is a thrill but winning the overall crown was very special to me.

"The BMW PGA Championship has a wonderful heritage, a course with its own long and illustrious history and a list of champions that is second to none."