Dufner's stoic demeanor makes him an extremely likable guy on the course. (Credits: Reuters) |
Somewhere in the midst of Jason Dufner's third round stumbles (if you could call that) you had to feel something click with you as a viewer and him as a golfer. Sure Duf doesn't show much emotion, actually he mostly shows none at all, but you felt for him. You felt that pressure, which he didn't handle properly in the same tournament two years before. On Saturday he lipped a couple putts, hit one in the drink and left plenty to be desired on his approaches. The train wasn't necessarily derailing, but it wasn't exactly smooth sailing either. Watching that pressure just ever so slightly effect him made you want to root for him, made you want him to close it out on Sunday. And he did just that.
Even before this tournament, many people recognized a connection with Dufner. He's not an intimidating figure like Tiger, nor is he a charismatic wizard like Phil Mickelson; he's really just a normal guy. A quiet, unassuming, goofy-looking guy from the suburbs of Cleveland. He isn't flashy, he doesn't celebrate his putts and has no ulterior motives when he's in front of the camera. The guy simply enjoys the sport, works hard to make a tremendous living and plays the game right way. I guess you could say that his shtick is his propensity to pack a monster lip when things get a little dicey. That doesn't rub everyone the right way, but for the younger generation of tobacco-chewing college kids it certainly helps them relate. No matter why you gravitate towards Jason Dufner, whether for his low-profile appearance or country boy chaw habits, he's an extremely likable guy.
So when Duf birdied holes 4, 5 and 8, it want anyone but him to lift that trophy. The guy had his heart ripped out of him in the 2011 PGA Championship and there was no way you wanted to see him fall apart again. Not when a midwestern boy was dominating a midwestern course. Not when he was locked in the way he was. Not when there wasn't an ounce of showboating or club smashing. Pure class lifted the Wanamaker Trophy yesterday and it was a beautiful thing to see.
"Stoic and Spectacular," was the call by Jim Nantz after Dufner sank the tournament winning putt, which is a perfect way to put it. The trophy presentation made things even better as a clearly, nervous, emotional and excited Dufner spoke while lifting that gorgeous trophy. He didn't cry, but he poured out thanks to everyone that had helped him all while tears welled up in his eyes. You could tell being the spotlight was a bit overwhelming for him, but wouldn't it be for all of us? I believe Duf is good enough (and young enough at 36) to win a few more majors, but the best part is that I don't think he'll ever change. The more the spotlight grows on the tobacco-chewing Auburn product, the more he'll get comfortable with it. But will he enjoy it? Will he bask in his own glory? No. That's what will make him a fan favorite for years to come.
So everyone, get go out and buy a tin of Cope Wintergreen in his name. This one's for you Duf.
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