The 62-year-old golfer won dozens of events during his career but he is particularly proud of his recognition among the greats of the game after he was inducted into the Hall back in 2013.

He told Bunkered magazine: “I was talking to Ernie Els about it recently, the Hall of Fame.

“He said it’s the biggest thing he’s ever been awarded, and he’s won four majors.

“I would have to agree with him. You can’t get any higher than the World Golf Hall of Fame.

“I don’t think a lot of people realise how big a deal it is.

“There’s only two players every two years that are inducted. It’s a big deal, a huge, big deal.

“It’s the greatest award that you can get. You can’t get any higher. You can’t get any more.

“That’s what it means to me.

“To speak in front of 2,000 people live in the audience was quite emotional. It was a terrific ceremony and I was obviously very proud to be part of it.”

Another major highlight for the sporting legend was leading Europe to victory in the 2010 Ryder Cup.

He said: “Receiving the trophy from the now king, Prince Charles, in Wales, the Prince of Wales, was incredible.

“It wasn’t about me because it’s not about the captain.

“It’s about the 12 players who managed to get the 14.5 points required.

“At the same time, when the trophy was presented, somehow it felt like I’d won a major and I hadn’t hit a golf shot.

“It was most peculiar in many ways.

“To be a Ryder Cup captain is one thing, but to be a winning Ryder Cup captain is another. I’m very proud of that.

“I’m very proud of the team that was selected and did the job, not just for me but for the European Tour.”