Queen honors Ryder Cup winner McDowell

LONDON – US Open and Ryder Cup-winning golfer Graeme McDowell was among the sports figures honored by Queen Elizabeth II in her New Year list Friday.

The Northern Irishman was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire after a year in which he captured his first major title at Pebble Beach. He also won three European Tour events and captured the decisive Ryder Cup match against the United States.

“It is a huge honor for me to be included on the New Year Honors List,” McDowell said. “For my achievements as a professional golfer to be recognized in this way is truly special. Both myself and my family are very proud of this unique acknowledgment.”

Also made an MBE was English football referee Howard Webb, who this year became the first man to take charge of the Champions League and World Cup finals in the same year.

The 39-year-old Webb, who has taken a sabbatical from his regular job as a police officer, showed a record 14 yellow cards and one red in Spain’s 1-0 World Cup final win over the Netherlands.                (AP)