Golf: Jordan Spieth calls Lydia Ko 'one of the greats'

Lydia Ko took to the stage in Augusta last night to be crowned female golfer of the year.

Bestowed by the Golf Writers Association of America, Ko was given the honour beside reigning Masters champion Jordan Spieth who claimed the men's prize.

Both players attending a celebratory dinner last night in Columbia County, with Masters and US Open champion Spieth, 22, calling the Kiwi an inspiration after the pair met for the first time earlier that day at Augusta National, where Spieth is defending the Green Jacket this week.

"Lydia Ko, who just won her second major championship, is certainly - as we all know - one of the great players," Spieth said in his acceptance speech.

"It was an honour to meet you today and very special watching what you do. Inspiring."

Ko, 19, who produced a lethal final back nine to claim the ANA Inspiration last week - and become the youngest player in LPGA Tour history to claim two majors - was in a trademark relaxed mood, cracking jokes through her acceptance speech before turning to give thanks.

"Thank you for this special award, 2015 was an incredible year for me and it wouldn't have been without the tremendous support I've had form my team, so I just want to say thank you to them," Ko said.

"The biggest thank you to my family, my trainers and my coaches for everything you do for me and always being by my side. I appreciate it.

"Congratulations to everyone who won an award tonight. I had a great time at the Masters, I was a fan-girl out there taking a lot of photos."