Donald receiving royal honor

Published Jun. 15, 2012 1:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

Luke Donald has been recognized by Queen Elizabeth II for spending almost a year at the top of golf's world ranking.

The Englishman, who has spent 48 weeks as No. 1 since May last year, was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the Queen's birthday honors list released Saturday.

Donald also topped the PGA and European tour money lists in 2011 -- an unprecedented achievement -- but still hasn't won a major title.

Speaking from the U.S. Open in San Francisco, Donald said: ''I am truly honored to be awarded an MBE by Her Majesty, particularly in her Jubilee year.''

Former England goalkeeper David James and recently retired Wales rugby winger Shane Williams also were awarded MBEs.