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Jason Dufner became the final player to qualify for the Grand Slam of Golf in Bermuda after winning the PGA Championship at Oak Hill on Sunday.
 
The 36-year-old joins Adam Scott (Masters), Justin Rose (Open) and Phil Mickelson (US Open) in receiving invites to the event at Port Royal Golf Course as this season’s Major winners.
 
Dufner overhauled Jim Furyk’s overnight lead in a superb display of ball-striking in upstate New York — three times his approach shots left him with birdie tap-ins — to win his maiden Major by two shots.
 
It was a sweet moment for the popular Ryder Cup player, who has gained Twitter notoriety thanks to the ‘Dufnering’ craze, which has seen fellow golfers and celebrities copy the American’s now-famous expressionless slump.
 
Now, though, after blowing a five-shot lead at the PGA two years ago, Dufner has gained greater recognition for winning one of the game’s big prizes thanks to a final round, two-under 70.   
 
“I can't believe this is happening to me,” Dufner said. "To come back from a couple of years ago in this championship when I lost to Keegan in the play-off, to win feels really, really good. The last two holes were a little unfortunate. I wish I could've closed out with no bogeys but I am happy to get the job done. It's a big step for my career."
 
Now the stage is set for two quality rounds in Bermuda, where the four players are set to contest a $1.35 million prize pot.
 
“If you like comeback stories you’re going to love Jason Dufner,” said David Charles, Senior Director of Championships for the PGA of America.  “Two years ago at the PGA Championship he gave up a three-stroke lead in the final round and lost to Keegan Bradley.  At Oak Hill, he led from beginning to end on Sunday and capped off a great comeback.  He’s now a first-time Major Champion, earning his way into the most difficult golf event in the world for which to qualify.”
 
Andy Burrows, Grand Slam Chairman, said: “Now that the stage is set for October and we have our world-class qualifiers, we’ll go into overdrive to make sure Bermuda is ready to host another spectacular Grand Slam at Port Royal Golf Course.  The army of volunteers understands this event is seen around the world and we are focused on showing Bermuda – its people and its premier public golf course – in the best possible light.”
 
The Grand Slam is played October 14 to 16, and broadcast to a worldwide audience by Turner Sports on TNT.  The Bermuda Department of Tourism, Port Royal and the Fairmont Southampton are the official hosts.
 
The winner receives $600,000; second place $300,000, third place $250,000 and fourth place $200,000.

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