Named after triple Open Champion (1934, 1937, 1948) Sir Henry Cotton, this Award is made to the most promising newcomer on the European Tour, and selected by a committee of PGA European Tour, Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St.Andrews and Association of Golf Writers representatives.
European rookies who have beome Major Champions 2010 PGA Champion Martin Kaymer (2007 ROTY) is the latest of five award winners to go on to win a major championship after Tony Jacklin, Nick Faldo, Sandy Lyle and J-M Olazábal.
* Note: from 1960-71, the award was made by the British Professional Golfers' Association. Upon the founding of the European Tour in 1972, the award changed to its current format.
The Award is usually - but not always - given to the rookie who finishes highest on the European Tour Order of Merit / Race to Dubai.
