Langer: First golfer to win four on the senior circuit

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Europe

Bernhard Langer has become the first player to win four times in his 60s on the Champions Tour when he ran away with the SAS Championship by six strokes on Sunday.

Langer, who turned 61 in August, recorded his 38th victory on the 50-and-over circuit.

The German shot a closing 65 to finish at 22-under-par 194 at Prestonwood Country Club in Cary, North Carolina on October 14.

Langer is within two years of becoming the oldest winner on the tour.

He won seven times last year, and has five runner-up finishes this season to go with his two victories.

Bernhard Langer hits his tee shot on the second hole during the Ally Challenge at Warwick Hills Golf and Country Club in Grand Blanc, Michigan, US, September 14, 2018. /VCG Photo

"I just played very solid all day long," Langer said. "Putted well, hit the ball where I was looking and did everything exceptionally well."

Langer remains competitive in major championships against players sometimes less than half his age.

"We all age and it shows," Langer said. "Things are hurting and aching that didn't hurt ten or 20 years ago, but that's life and you just make the best of it. The good thing is the golf ball doesn't know how old I am."

He made the cut at both majors he contested this year, finishing equal 24th at the British Open and equal 38th at the Masters.

Bernhard Langer celebrates making a birdie during the Senior Open presented by Rolex at The Old Course in St Andrews, Scotland, July 28, 2018. /VCG Photo

Langer left school at 14 to pursue a career in golf. Since he joined the European Tour in 1976, Langer has won many events in Europe and the US and earned the honor as Germany's first true golf hero who lifted the game's popularity to new heights across the country.

"1985 was my best year ever. I won seven tournaments on five continents and became the Number one ranked golfer in the world," Langer said.

He was the inaugural world number one when the official world golf rankings were introduced in 1986. He was elected to the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2001, but deferred his induction until 2002.

Bernhard Langer kisses the Senior Open Championship trophy at Royal Porthcawl Golf Club in Bridgend, Wales, July 27, 2014. /VCG Photo

"I don't see the point in doing anything unless you try to do it the very best that you can. We are very fortunate to be able to play this game for a living and I am always aware of this good fortune," said Langer.

As for how long Langer will continue to tee it up on the PGA Tour Champions, Langer said, "I love competing, I love winning or being in the hunt. As long as I can do that, I think you're going to see me out here."

(With input from agencies)