Els on Dufner: Nice Swing and Shield

Jason Dufner breaks through. (Allison)

YOU KNEW ONE OF THESE TWO guys had to win the Zurich Classic. Would it be Jason Dufner, the player still looking for his first PGA Tour title? Or would it be the talented but tormented Ernie Els who hasn’t won on the PGA Tour in two years?

Both men had their chances in a sudden-death playoff, but it was Dufner who broke through with a second-chance birdie at the par-5 18th hole. It was the perfect early wedding gift for Dufner, who will tie the knot next weekend. Here’s what Els said about his impassive-looking playoff opponent.

“I don’t know how long he can keep it up, that wall, but he’s doing a good job so far (laughter). Kind of reminds me of myself back in the day. He’s a wonderful guy. I’ve played a lot of golf with Jason and [he] obviously came close to winning a major last year against Keegan [Bradley] and been close quite a few times.

“He’s got a wonderful golf swing and I think this will help him a lot. I think he’ll win quite a few others. He’s got a really sound golf swing and game. If he keeps that shield up, he’s got—you know, that’s a pretty good defensive mechanism he’s got there.”