Luke Campbell Donald (MBE, born 7 December 1977) is an English professional golfer. He turned professional in 2001 and primarily competes on the U.S.-based PGA Tour, while keeping membership on the European circuit. Donald is notable for topping both the PGA Tour and European Tour money lists in the same calendar year, a feat he achieved in 2011.
Early life and education
Donald was born in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire. He attended Northwestern University in the United States, where he developed his game before turning professional. His father is Scottish.
Professional career
Donald made his professional debut at the Reno-Tahoe Open on the PGA Tour. In his rookie season he joined a small group of first-year players who earned more than $1 million, becoming only the 11th rookie in PGA Tour history to pass that mark.
Notable results and awards
- 2004: Winner of the Omega European Masters (European Tour)
- 2004: Winner of the Scandinavian Masters (European Tour)
- 2011: Led both the PGA Tour and European Tour money lists in the same year
- 2011: Received both the PGA Player of the Year and the PGA Tour Player of the Year awards; he was the first Englishman to win either honour
- 2011: Named European Tour Golfer of the Year
These achievements in 2011 represent the peak of Donald's season, when he collected multiple individual honours in addition to his leading positions on the season money lists.
Personal notes
Donald continues to maintain ties to both the United Kingdom and the United States through his upbringing, education and professional commitments. His combination of collegiate experience and success on both sides of the Atlantic has made him a prominent figure in contemporary British golf.