Friday 1 November 2019 15:57, UK
Henrik Stenson has been made an honorary life member of the European Tour in recognition of his groundbreaking 2016 season.
Stenson becomes the first golfer from Sweden to be honoured by the Tour following his historic maiden major victory in The Open at Royal Troon in July, when he edged out Phil Mickelson in a memorable final-day duel.
The 40-year-old received the accolade from European Tour chief executive Keith Pelley ahead of the season-ending DP World Tour Championship, where Stenson is a firm favourite to wrap up the Race to Dubai crown for the second time in his career.
Stenson, who carded a sensational 63 to get his hands on the Claret Jug, is the 51st honorary life member after Danny Willett received the same award earlier this year to mark his Masters victory in April.
"It is a great honour to join the exclusive club of people who have been awarded Honorary Life Membership of The European Tour," said Stenson, whose Open win was the 11th European Tour title of his career. "That's definitely a special thing and something I will dearly cherish."
Pelley added: "It is a true privilege to present Henrik with his honorary life membership of The European Tour. Obviously the epic battle and his legendary win in The Open at Troon versus Phil Mickelson is the catalyst for this.
"But Henrik is a special member of our Tour both on and off the golf course. What he gives to our Tour is incredible, his contribution to the tournament committee, and how he interacts with all the players.
"I call him often to get advice, but today it's about celebrating his greatness on the golf course, and there was no greater afternoon than watching that Sunday at Troon."
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