The Race for World Number One in 2012

Following Luke Donald’s success on both the European and US PGA Tours, and the resurgence of both Lee Westwood and Tiger Woods in recent weeks, the 2012 season promises to be hotly contested and should offer exciting viewing for golf fans around the globe.

The 2010 and 2011 seasons saw the decline of Tiger Woods, with the vacuum he left being filled by some of the game’s finest young players. This season, the likes of Luke Donald, Lee Westwood, Rory McIlroy and Martin Kaymer emerged as contenders for the coveted title of world number one, with Donald finally clinching the top spot by the season’s end. Donald also topped the money lists on both sides of the Atlantic last week, confirming his place as top player of the season.

As a host of players compete to become world number one, the golfer who once held that position unchallenged is showing signs of being back in top form. Tiger Woods took a severe knock as events in his personal life and a series of injuries saw him drop in the world golf rankings. However, his game has consistently improved since the middle of this year, and having broken his winning drought of almost two years the former world number one will be keen to regain his former glory.

For Donald, who was beaten by a margin of seven strokes at the weekend by Lee Westwood, staying at the top of world golf will prove challenging in 2012. The sheer number and quality of players who have world number one potential will bring a storm of competition in their wake – one that Donald will have to weather if he is to retain his position in the New Year.

As the year draws to a close, a jubilant Luke Donald will be celebrating a momentous season. For his rivals, the festive recess will offer an opportunity for well-deserved rest as they prepare to compete in 2012.

Golfweather Editorial