GOLF: Monty hails McDowell's US Open victory

"It was a magnificent performance," said Montgomerie, twice a runner-up in the event himself and also third on his debut at Pebble Beach in 1992.

"He holed so many key putts - especially a crucial one on the eighth for par - and was very impressive throughout the week.

"He showed great strength of character in getting the job done in such superb fashion. He is a world-class player and obviously I am delighted to have a 2010 major winner in my team this year."

McDowell has moved all the way up to second in the points race after back-to-back victories at the Wales Open - on the same Celtic Manor course where October's match will be staged - and then the US Open.

"All credit to Graeme to be the first European player in 40 years to win," added Montgomerie, who is expected to pair McDowell with 21-year-old compatriot Rory McIlroy when the Americans defend the trophy.

"Nick (Faldo), Bernhard (Langer) and myself came close, but none of us achieved what he has. This is great for British golf and also the European Tour. Golf salutes him."

McDowell joined a venerable list of previous winners at Pebble Beach.

Graeme told the world's media: "To win here, to join the names, Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, Tom Kite, Tiger Woods, me… wow. I'm not quite sure if I belong in that list, but, hey, I'm there now. It's a pretty amazing feeling."

He's up to thirteenth in the world rankings and a certainty to be in the European Ryder Cup side in October at Celtic Manor.

And he can take the confidence of winning his first Major into the Open next month at St Andrews, a course he has always played well.

"St. Andrews has been a course that's been good to me. To go there as U.S. Open champion and with an opportunity to win another major is going to be cool. But Majors are tough to win, there's no doubt about it.

Meanwhile Graeme's brother, Gary has confidently predicted that the 30-year-old will go on to collect further prestigious titles.

Family and friends packed the Rathmore clubhouse in Portrush in the early hours of Monday morning to cheer the golf club's most famous member over the finish line.

Holding off some of the world's greatest players – including Tiger Woods and Phil Mickleson – McDowell held his nerve over the final holes at Pebble Beach to capture the coveted title and a handsome $1.5m cheque.

Gary said: "I spoke to him this morning. He's pretty much still on cloud nine – he hasn't come down to earth yet. He was still holding on to the trophy like he was last night.

"It was just phenomenal to do what he did. He has been playing well, but to cross the finish line in the majors, which is not your bog standard tour event, takes a lot of guts and that is what he has. That is why he was able to do it. It is just brilliant."

Gary added: "It'll not be a one-off. I actually fancy him to win a British Open, maybe not next month, but I think he will win one eventually."