The Breeders’ Cup awarded golfer and South African Thoroughbred breeder Gary Player the inaugural Breeders’ Cup Sports and Racing Excellence Award on Friday.

The award honors an individual who excels in one chosen profession and also maintains a strong interest in the racing industry as an owner, breeder, or participant.

Player, the winner of nine profession golf major championships, also owns and operates the 20,000-acre Gary Player Stud in Cape Province in South Africa.

“Demonstrating that same commitment to excellence which made him the world’s greatest international golfer, Gary’s outstanding success as a Thoroughbred breeder and passionate supporter of horse racing makes him an extraordinary first recipient of our Sports and Racing Award,” Breeders’ Cup President Greg Avioli said.

“I am chuffed at being selected for this inaugural award and delighted to accept it on behalf of all horse lovers around the world,” Player said from his stud farm in Colesberg, South Africa. “If I had to chose golf over horses. … I would miss my clubs!”