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 Opens. He was also captain of Europe's Ryder Cup team that suffered a heavy defeat to the USA last year.
Faldo said in a statement: "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 continued: "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.
"Golf is in so many ways a very British pastime, and Britain the true home of the sport. In recent times, this nation has produced some of the finest golfers of any generation - players like Tony Jacklin, Ian Woosnam and Sandy Lyle - multiple Major-winning sportsmen that have represented this nation at the very highest level and not been found wanting.
"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."