'Humbled' Faldo overwhelmed to be awarded knighthood

Nick Faldo, the most successful British golfer in the modern era, felt "humbled" but "delighted" after being awarded a knighthood in the Queen's Birthday Honours List.

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Nick Faldo, the most successful British golfer in the modern era, felt "humbled" but "delighted" after being awarded a knighthood in the Queen's Birthday Honours List. Faldo, 51, becomes Sir Nick on the back of a career which has seen him win six majors including three British Opens. He was also captain of Europe's Ryder Cup team that suffered a heavy defeat to the USA last year.

"I was delighted to hear the news that I will be receiving a knighthood and am more than a little bit humbled to have been afforded this great honour," he said. "It has come as a real surprise and the reaction from my children, family and friends has made this a very special moment for me. I believe I join Sir Henry Cotton as the only other professional British golfer to receive a knighthood so to stand alongside such esteemed company is incredible."

Meanwhile the weather played havoc with the St Jude Classic in Memphis where several players, including Robert Allenby, had their second rounds cut short on Friday. But despite the storms the Australian was happy with his game. "I'm playing solid, playing really well," Allenby said. "I'm making good putts and hitting the ball very solid as well." He added: "It's just one of those golf courses that you've got to hit the ball really well. I think that sets up really well for me. I think you've got to be a good ball striker.

"There's some pretty tricky holes out there and some holes that, you know, you can go after, and a couple of the par-fives. That's where you can probably make an eagle or birdie and move up the leaderboard. "You just never know what can happen around here. It's a tricky golf course. Especially if the wind starts blowing, it can get real tricky." * With agencies