Graeme McDowell celebrates after his birdie at the 16th

Graeme McDowell's crucial birdie putt at the 16th hole on the final day of the Ryder Cup has been voted European Tour Shot of the Year.

It is the latest award for the Northern Irish player, who received an MBE in the New Year Honours.

Knowing that the outcome of the Ryder Cup rested firmly on his shoulders, McDowell held his nerve to sink the 15-foot putt at Celtic Manor.

He went on to beat Hunter Mahan and secure the winning point for Europe.

"That putt on the 16th was the best I've hit in my life," said the US Open champion from Portrush.

"It was just 15 feet but it was above the hole and very fast. I knew I just had to get the ball going and thankfully it caught an edge and dropped in because I wouldn't have fancied the one back if it had missed.

"In the context of The Ryder Cup, that 16th hole was massive as I was aware that everything was riding on the outcome of my singles match with Hunter. I knew that a half point was still not good enough to regain the cup.

"However everything went according to plan at the 16th and the rest is history.

"I will never forget the feeling standing over that putt and appreciating its importance.

"It was as important as any stroke I will ever play in my career and I am delighted it has been voted as The European Tour Shot of the Year."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version