Miguel Angel Jimenez has been named “Race to Dubai Golfer of the Month for November” in recognition of his triumph at the UBS Hong Kong, where he broke three records.
In Hong Kong, a city that “excites” him, the player from Malaga achieved the “hat trick” by beating the Swede Fredrik Andersson Hed by one stroke, adding this victory to the previous ones in 2005 and 2008. He also broke three records: he became the oldest winner on the European Tour at the age of 48 years and 318 days (Churriana, Malaga, January 5, 1964); with 12 titles at the age of 40; and he is the only European player who has won six times in Asia. Jimenez has 22 victories in his record, of which he has won 19 on the European Tour.
Pisha” will toast with Moët & Chandon for this recognition, which makes him feel “very happy, very happy”. The jury that awards this prize every month is made up of commentators from different television and radio stations and members of the “Association of Golf Writers”, who, without doubt, have had to face one of the most difficult decisions in the history of these awards, as the list of candidates included Rory McIlroy, Ian Poulter, Matteo Manassero, Luke Donald, Martin Kaymer, Graeme McDowell and Henrik Stenson, all with the same merits as the Malaga native.
The grandfather of the Tour
“I am very happy, very happy and delighted, and I am very grateful that they recognize the work of the ‘grandfather of the Tour’.
“With the win in Hong Kong I have put the year right; it has been a season of many ups and downs, nothing brilliant, hitting the ball well but very poor on the greens, and yet that week I kicked well and that was the difference.
“I feel privileged, next year I will be 25 years on Tour and I have played with three generations: when I started there were Seve, Faldo, Woosnam, Langer and Lyle in their heyday; then came Westwood, Furyk, Mickelson, Tiger…; and now I am competing with McIlroy, Kaymer and Manassero. The truth is that it is a privilege and I feel very proud.
“The season is not over yet, on Monday I’m leaving with my great friend “Vascorro” (Olazábal) for the Royal Trophy and then… to rest and recharge my batteries, which I really need”.
Jimenez joins Branden Grace (January), Paul Lawrie (February), Rory McIlroy (March and August), Louis Oosthuizen (April), Luke Donald (May), Jamie Donaldson (June), Ernie Els (July), Ian Poulter (September) and Peter Hanson (October) in earning “Race to Dubai Golfer of the Month” recognition, who will compete for “Golfer of the Year” at the end of December.
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