Rory won't rest on his laurels

Last updated: 12th November 2012

It would be easy for Rory McIlroy to take his foot off the pedal now that he has won both money lists, but the Ulsterman is determined to improve even further.

The two-time major winner finished third at the Singapore Open on Sunday and with Louis Oosthuizen losing in a play-off to Italian teenager Matteo Manassero, the 23-year-old wrapped up the "double" (European and US Tour money list).

He also became the youngest Order of Merit winner since Sandy Lyle in 1980 in the process.

With so many accolades coming his way at such a young age, McIlroy could be forgiven for taking it easy, but he warns he is far from done.

"I've still got two events remaining this year and the goal is still to try and win at least once more before the end of the year," he said.

"I've got a healthy lead in the world rankings, but with so many very good players on both sides of the Atlantic it will not be a time to be resting on my laurels.

"Monty (Colin Montgomerie) won eight Order of Merits in his prime and I have won one, so there is plenty of ground to make up.

"Also Jack Nicklaus won 18 majors and I now have my name on two, so targeting the majors will still be my main focus next season."

McIlroy, who followed in Luke Donald's footsteps as the Englishman also won the double in 2011, admits it's been an amazing year.

"It really is hugely satisfying to finally become the European number one, especially after finishing second two of the last three years.

"It has always been one of my goals ever since securing my Tour card five years ago, but then to also end the year as both European and PGA Tour number one is just amazing.

"I feel so proud and humbled to join so many fabulous names in Europe who have won the Order of Merit.

"To be able to accomplish this goal with still two events remaining means that I can head to my UBS Hong Kong Open defence and the DP World Championship Dubai without that added pressure and just really enjoy my golf.

"Winning a second major championship (the USPGA in August by eight shots just like his US Open triumph last season) already made it a fabulous season, but then to follow Luke Donald in becoming number one in both Europe and the States is the icing on the cake after a fabulous season.

"I set myself a number of ambitious goals at the start of the year and to have ticked so many of the boxes feels great.

"A lot of hard work went into this and I am really proud of what I've achieved in 2012.

"I would like to give special thanks to the team around me for all the support they have given me throughout the year."