Came from ten strokes behind with a spectacular final round of 67 to win the 1999 Open Golf Championship after a four-hole play-off at Carnoustie, just an hour from his home, against Frenchman Jean Van de Velde and the 1997 Open champion Justin Leonard. Birdied the last two holes of the four-hole play-off. Now coached by former European Tour player Adam Hunter. Credits Scottish Rugby Union sports psychologist, Dr Richard Cox, for his improvement mentally over the past few seasons. Worked as assistant under the late Doug Smart at Banchory, near Aberdeen, after leaving school at 17. The club have now named the 14th hole after him. Backed by a consortium of local businessmen, won the 1992 UAP Under-25s Championship by eight strokes. Shot 65 five times in tournaments, most notably in the last round of the 1993 Open Championship when he holed a three iron second shot at the 17th to finish sixth behind Greg Norman.

Made superb Ryder Cup debut at Brookline - hitting the opening tee shot and claiming three and a half points, including a brave win over Jeff Maggert in the bottom singles tie. Awarded honorary law doctorate from Robert Gordon's University in his native Aberdeen. Made several caddie changes at start of 2000 before settling on Mick Doran. Made an Honorary Life Member of European Tour then awarded MBE in Queen's Birthday Honours List. Suffered groin injury during summer of 2000 but played well towards end of year. Recorded his fourth European Tour victory in spectacular fashion in the inaugural Dunhill Links Championship at St Andrews when he holed a 40 foot birdie putt at the 18th from the Valley of Sin to edge Ernie Els by a shot.