Beem was a rank outsider to take the title at the start of the week but a final round of 68 gave him a one-shot victory over a charging Tiger Woods.

"I'm not one of those guys who feels like he can win a Major like Tiger," said Beem.

"I didn't know if I had what it took to win it. I found out I do and I'm actually still surprised at myself for it. I'm elated beyond belief.

"I was a lot more in control of my emotions than I ever have been under that kind of pressure.

"I told all the reporters this week that I had no expectations. I didn't expect to win.

"When I came to the golf course I was first out on Monday morning because I wanted an early practice.

"I really enjoyed the course and thought I could get around fairly easily. But I never expected this.

"My putter was unbelievable for the first two rounds and my ball striking was good throughout."

Beem's reward for denying Woods a clean sweep of the American Majors this year was a cheque for $990,000 and a five-year exemption on the PGA Tour and the three other majors.

And he will be able to return to the PGA Championship as often as he likes.