Bernhard Langer claimed a record-breaking 46th PGA TOUR Champions title with victory at the U.S. Senior Open.
The German had been tied with Hale Irwin for the most wins for a player on the American over-50s circuit since he won the Chubb Classic for a record fifth time in February.
Holding a two-shot lead heading into the final round at SentryWorld in Wisconsin, Langer carded a one-under-par 70 to claim a two-shot victory over Steve Stricker.
With his 12th senior Major title, and the 65-year-old becomes the oldest player to win on the PGA TOUR Champions, extending his record for both.
Time flies when you’re having fun.
— PGA TOUR Champions (@ChampionsTour) July 2, 2023
Relive all 46 of ‘em.#Langer46 pic.twitter.com/kP5Yw0M2PT
“It feels awesome,” Langer said. “It's been a long time coming, but very, very happy.
"Never thought it would happen at a U.S. Senior Open, but I'm very thrilled that the record of 46 wins happened this week.
“It's certainly one of the greatest tournaments we ever compete in, and to beat this field, where everybody was here, especially Stricker and [Jerry] Kelly on their home grounds, is a very special feeling. Very grateful.”
Two-time Masters Champion Langer seized control on Sunday with birdies at his first two holes and three of his first five before another gain at the ninth saw him stretch his lead to six shots. Despite bogeying his final three holes, it did not prevent him celebrating a deserved victory.
Fellow former Ryder Cup Captain Stricker, who was bidding to make history of his own by becoming the first player to win the first three senior Majors of a season, was among those quick to pay credit to Langer's achievement.
“It's amazing, isn't it? All-time win record, and now 12 majors,” Stricker said.
“He's going strong at - what is he, 65 or 66? Sixty-five.
"It gives all of us hope, I guess, that are out here still playing that we can continue to play as good as he's played for such a long time. It's really impressive."
