McIlroy feels 'fortunate' while Clarke says OBE a 'privilege'
Open champion Clarke privileged to be recognised with OBE
Rory McIlroy admitted it was "quite humbling" to be awarded an MBE in the New Year Honours List.
The Northern Irishman was recognised after a stunning 2011 that included victory in the US Open by an astounding eight shots in a tournament record score of 16 under par.
His success came just two months after a final-round meltdown at the Masters, the 22-year-old ending up in a tie for 15th having held a four-shot lead overnight.
McIlroy also triumphed at the UBS Hong Kong Open and finished the year sitting second in the world rankings.
"I am delighted to be named in the Queen's New Year Honours list," he said. "It is quite humbling to be included in such a list of worthy recipients.
"Many people on the Honours list have made huge personal sacrifices and contributed significantly to society during their lives. I feel very fortunate to be in their company."
Fantastic year
McIlroy was not the only golfer to be honoured - compatriot Darren Clarke received an OBE five months after he won the Open Championship at Sandwich
"I have had a fantastic year and this just caps it off," Clarke said. "It is a privilege to be recognised with an OBE. It is a lot to take in.
"I could not have envisaged the year I have had. Winning The Open was obviously a dream come true, and it was at the 20th attempt.
"I had chances before and at 42 thought that maybe it was just not to be.
"It was a life-changing moment really and in many ways my feet have not touched the floor since. And now this.
"It reflects everything I have achieved in the game which makes me feel very proud."
