Donald ... back where it started

LUKE DONALD cantered to a four shot victory at the 2012 BMW PGA Championship to regain his ranking as the world’s No.1 golfer at the weekend.

Donald first gained the ranking a year ago after winning the same event in his native England and although losing the title four times to Rory McIlroy in the 12 months still sees it as an important milestone.

“There is something special about going 12 months and still being No.1,” the 34-year-old said. “We have swapped it a couple of times but to go a 12 month span is something I am very proud of and is a vindication that what I am doing is right and shows that my game is improving.”

Donald finished untroubled at 15-under with fellow countryman Justin Rose tied for second with Scotland’s Paul Lawrie on 11-under.

Rose missed something of a sitter putt on the last that would have seen him in outright second. The Englishman had put some pressure on Donald early on before the world No.1 clinically eased away.

Arch rival McIlroy didn’t even make the cut.

2012 BMW PGA Championship Final Results