Catriona Matthew just missed out on the Henderson money list title after she finished 12th in the Dubai Ladies’ Masters, but she still ended the season on a high note by being named the Ladies’ European Tour Player of the Year. 

A poll of all the Tour members chooses the golfer who “has made most impact over the season” and the North Berwick 40-year-old was a worthy winner.

She became the first Scot to claim a major at the Ricoh Women’s British Open at Lytham and St Annes in August just 11 weeks after the arrival of second daughter, Sophie. 

“Obviously it’s fantastic,” was Matthew’s reaction to receiving the honour. “When it’s a vote by the players, this is definitely the best award. It’s capped off a great season for me. I’ve only played around ten events and just happened to win the right one.

“I think Sophie changed my life quite a lot. There were a few sleepless nights but we’re getting into a routine now. I’m looking forward to spending Christmas at home with the family in Scotland.”

A final round 70 at the Emirates Club saw Matthew finish on eight under par in Dubai and brought her season’s earnings in Europe to €259,871, which was good enough for second place on the money list. 

Sophie Gustafson held on to top spot after a 71 for six under par. Her final total was €281,315 and it is the fourth time this decade that the Swede has been crowned No.1 on the LET. 

South Korea’s In Kyung Kim, the leader from halfway, closed with a 68 and won on 18 under par, three better then American Michelle Wie, who became the third player of the tournament to equal the course record of 65.
 
Musselburgh’s Vikki Laing ended her solid rookie season with a round of 75 and tied for 19th place – her second top 20 of the year – on three under par.

Krystle Caithness, the third Scot to make the cut, had a 74 and was on seven over par. 
Laing finished the season in 53rd place on €32,626, while Caithness was 41st with €46,336.