Rooney got 80% of the votes, with Didier Drogba on second and Carlos Tevez third.
“I am delighted to win an award with so much history and tradition,” Rooney said.
The 24-year-old has scored 34 goals for United this season.
“To follow a long line of wonderful players who have been honoured by the FWA since 1948 gives me real pride,” added Rooney.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank my manager at United Sir Alex Ferguson, the coaching staff and my team mates without whose help and support this award would not have been possible.”
