"I extend my warmest congratulations to Mr Els for making our nation so proud and able to walk tall. We are all beaming with pride at this magnificent South African victory," said Zuma in a statement.
South Africa's Ernie Els won the British Open - held at Lytham St Annes, England - by one stroke on Sunday after Adam Scott, an Australian, dropped strokes at each of the last four holes.
Meanwhile, Mbalula said the win was a "sign of good things to happen on the British soil".
"The standing ovation The Big Easy received [on Sunday], comes at the time when we prepare to compete with nations of the world during the 2012 London Olympic and Paralympic games, and this can only symbolise more glory for us, as a country, for the months of July and August," said the minister.
"Ernie's victory means a lot. The British weather has been fantastic for our athletes as they prepare to be counted amongst the best. And this weather must be seen and treated as an added plus for all these ambassadors of the country.
"Thank you Ernie Els for opening the doors for our athletes as they prepare for the podium finish during the 2012 London Olympic and Paralympic games," Mbalula added.
