US golfer Zach Johnson says Scripture helped him win tournament, thanks God

Zach Johnson of the US celebrates as he kisses the Claret Jug after winning the British Open golf championship on the Old Course in St. Andrews, Scotland, on July 20, 2015.Reuters

Another Christian athlete is giving thanks to God for giving him success in the field of sports. This time, the glory belonged to 39-year-old American golfer Zach Johnson who recently won the Open Golf Tournament in St. Andrews, Scotland.

After his win, Johnson was at a loss for words and simply hugged his wife, Kim, and long-time caddie, Damon Green. But after recovering from his emotions, Johnson recalled the challenges he faced while he was just starting his career as a golfer, calling his win nothing short of a dream come true.

"Dreams have been realised and goals accomplished," Johnson said as he held the Claret Jug. "It takes me back to when I turned professional. You could even go back further than that when I was playing as a youngster. These are the things you dream about. These are the things you've worked to get to."

Earlier, the devout Christian revealed that he prepared for the tournament not just by practicing golf but also by reading Scripture. "I had some Scripture going in my head and I thank the Lord," he told Daily Star. "I thank God for the talent he's given me, and I take it seriously."

One of the Bible verses that really helped him, Johnson said, was Psalm 24:7. It reads: "Lift up your heads, you gates; be lifted up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in."

Despite all of his success in the field of golf, Johnson believes that nothing will be more important than what he accomplishes through his family.

"I am just a guy from Iowa and to have a green jacket and the Claret Jug is unbelievable," he said. "But it won't define who I am. It will not be my legacy, my wife and kids are my legacy."