Johnson Ends Wonderful Year As Champion

Zach Johnson closed his year as Masters Champion Sunday with a bit of sadness after a final round 77, but pride that he would return as a past Champion for the rest of his career.

"This year as Masters Champion has been fantastic," Johnson said. "Having the Green Jacket on my shoulders has been wonderful. There is no burden wearing the Green Jacket."

Johnson said he was happy to present the Green Jacket to Trevor Immelman as the 2008 winner.

"Trevor is obviously a good player, especially in these conditions," said Johnson. "I've played with him a lot and he's a good man. He's a family man and I'm very, very proud and most honored to hand him the jacket."

Johnson said the blustery conditions made it tough on him, shooting his highest score of the week at five-over-par 77.

He said he couldn't help but think what a special Sunday it was for him one year ago, and what a special year this has been in his life and his golfing career.

"It's meant a lot," he said. "It's one of those things you don't want to give up, but that's why we play every year."

After proceeding all week with his reigning Champion duties, Johnson opened the first round with a two-under-par 70, delighting himself and even stirring talk about a possible repeat title.

"I was just eager to get to Thursday and see what would happen," he said.

He shot a 76 in the second round, but came back with a four-under-par 68 in the third round, leaving him in the top 10 going to the final round.

"It was just one of those things," he said of the difficult day. "I didn't choose the wind gusts properly today. I hit really good shots on 12 and 14, but the wind came up and really affected them. I caught a couple of gusts on some putts and it led to some bogeys, but that's just the way it is sometimes."

Playing in conditions he said were as tough last year's frigid blast. Johnson said he was proud of himself for the way he held together in the final four holes.

"My play was certainly roller coaster like this week, but it's certainly easier to give a coat up when you have one in the closet," he said.

At the post-Tournament awards ceremony, Masters Chairman Billy Payne thanked Johnson for being such a great Champion.

Then Johnson stood up and handed a Green Jacket to another happy first time Masters winner, Trevor Immelman.