Los Angeles, CA (My Sportsbook) - Landon Donovan made history by winning the 2008 Honda Player of the year award on Tuesday, becoming the only five-time winner of the most coveted prize in United States soccer.

For the last 18 years, the award has honored the best U.S. player as chosen by the American sports media. Tim Howard finished second and Clint Dempsey placed third.

This recognition coincides with the start of Donovan's trial with Bayern Munich in Germany. Donovan, who currently plays with the Los Angeles Galaxy, started training with the Bundesliga club Tuesday and hopes to sign a contract with the team this winter.

Donovan's history with the Honda Player of the Year Award features a series of unprecedented feats. With his first win in 2002, Donovan was the youngest award winner.

Continuing to win the honor for the next two years, Donovan was the only player to receive the award three times. Last's year recognition meant a record four wins and now Donovan, only 26, continues to forge new ground as the only player to win five times.

Earlier this year, Donovan scored a record-breaking 35th goal during the match against Sweden, making him the all-time goalscorer for the U.S. National Team.

Since then, he scored in the World Cup Qualifying game against the Barbados and during the game against Cuba in which the team clinched its berth in the final round of qualifying.

With a career total of 37 goals during his 105 games, Donovan is currently the most tenured player on the national team and continues to shine as one of the best players in the history of U.S. Soccer.

The Honda Player of the Year Award has honored 12 different players in its 18 year history: Landon Donovan (2008, 2007, 2004, 2003 and 2002), Clint Dempsey (2006), Kasey Keller (2005, 1999), Earnie Stewart (2001), Claudio Reyna (2000), Cobi Jones (1998), Eddie Pope (1997), Eric Wynalda (1996, 1992), Alexi Lalas (1995), Marcelo Balboa (1994), Thomas Dooley (1993) and Hugo Perez (1991).