Nick Faldo has been honoured by the Professional Golfers' Association with the presentation of the inaugural PGA Recognition Award for outstanding services to golf.
Faldo, the first recipient of the award, said: "I'm truly delighted to be accepting this, particularly as it is the first time the PGA have honoured a golfer in this way.
"I've been a member of the PGA since turning professional in 1976 and I'm thrilled that after all this time my career is being recognised by the oldest association of its kind in the world.
"I have been lucky enough to have pursued a career doing what I love best and even more fortunate to have won a few times along the way - a habit which I hope to pick up again in the very near future."
Sandy Jones, chief executive of the PGA, said: "Nick has been one of golf's greatest ambassadors over the last three decades and there is no one better qualified to be our first recipient of this special award.
"Since becoming our youngest ever Ryder Cup Member at the age of 20 in 1977, Nick has continually set new standards of professionalism as well as records.
"His career achievement of winning three Open Championships and three Masters Tournaments, not to mention an unrivalled Ryder Cup record, positioned him as Britain's best golfer of all time, but it is his dedication and commitment to the game which really sets him apart as the professional's professional.”
