Embattled golfer Tiger Woods has received a little good news as he was named the PGA Tour Player of the Year.

It is the 10th time Woods has collected the Jack Nicklaus Trophy, and his first since 2007.

But it comes as he continues to battle against the fall-out from revelations about his private life which have caused him to take a break from the game as several sponsors - Swiss watchmaker Tag Heuer the latest tonight - drop the 33-year-old.

Woods was recognised by his fellow professionals for his achievements in returning to action from knee surgery, as he won six tournaments out of 17 started.

Woods also had three top-10 finishes during the play-offs.

Australian Marc Leishman, 26, won the Rookie of the Year award.

"Congratulations to Tiger and Marc for their accomplishments in 2009," said PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem.

"Both players enjoyed outstanding seasons capped off by success in the play-offs. The recognition by their peers is the one of the highest compliments a PGA Tour member can receive."