Stenson lands monthly award

Henrik Stenson has been named as January’s European Tour golfer of the month after a win and a second place in his two individual events.

The 29-year-old beat Thongchai Jaidee to claim the decisive singles match for Europe against Asia at the Royal Trophy in Thailand.

Stenson took this form with him to the Middle East where he set a 10-under-par course record en route to finishing second to Chris DiMarco at the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship.

Then last weekend, he captured his third European Tour title at the Commercialbank Qatar Masters, holding off the challenge of England’s Paul Broadhurst to win by three shots.

The Swede said: “It’s been a fantastic start to the new year. To win all my matches in the Royal Trophy then finish second and first in successive weeks is great for my long-term goals such as the Ryder Cup.

“It was my turn in Qatar and hopefully it will be my turn on other occasions during the year.

“I am just trying to ride the wave and press on so that I can look forward to the K Club (the venue for the Ryder Cup) in September.”