Zach Johnson has perfect message as John Deere Classic title dream moves one step closer originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Zach Johnson has spent decades building a reputation as one of golf’s steadiest competitors, and on Saturday he put himself in position for another memorable finish at one of the most meaningful tournaments of his career. The 50-year-old fired a 5-under 66 in the third round of the John Deere Classic to move to 13-under for the tournament, leaving him firmly in contention entering Sunday’s final round. While Lucas Glover remained in front after another strong day, Johnson is within striking distance as he looks to capture his second John Deere Classic title.
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If Johnson can complete the comeback, it would mark his first PGA Tour victory since winning The Open Championship in 2015 and add another chapter to his remarkable history at TPC Deere Run.
MORE: Where to watch John Deere Classic golf: Channels, live streams, TV schedules, tee times for 2026 PGA Tour event
Zach Johnson’s message says everything about his return
Johnson arrived at this week’s tournament already carrying plenty of momentum. Earlier this season, he won twice on the PGA Tour Champions, but he chose to skip the U.S. Senior Open to return to a tournament that has always meant more than just another stop on the schedule. Following his third round, Johnson summed up exactly why.
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“It starts with the people, and it ends with the people.”
The Iowa native has long described the John Deere Classic as a second home, and that connection has shown throughout the week. His comfort level has been evident from the opening round, when he shot 64, and he has remained near the top of the leaderboard with rounds of 70 and 66. Rather than focusing on proving anything at this stage of his career, Johnson has embraced the opportunity to compete in front of a community that has supported him for years.
A chance to add another chapter to an impressive resume
Johnson’s resume already includes 12 PGA Tour victories, highlighted by wins at the 2007 Masters and the 2015 Open Championship. He also captured the John Deere Classic in 2012 and has recorded numerous top-five finishes at the event, making TPC Deere Run one of the best venues of his career.
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Now, another opportunity awaits. With one round remaining, Johnson will try to chase down the leaders and become one of the feel-good stories of the PGA Tour season. A victory would not only end an 11-year drought on the tour, but also reinforce that the veteran still has the ability to contend against the game’s younger stars.
Whether or not he lifts the trophy Sunday, Johnson’s performance has already reminded golf fans why the John Deere Classic continues to hold such a special place in his career. And as he put it himself, the reason is simple.
“It starts with the people, and it ends with the people.”
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