KJ Choi says his rock-solid swing was a big reason for his dramatic triumph in the Players Championship at Sawgrass on Sunday.
Sawgrass hero handles pressure to claim glory in Florida
KJ Choi says his rock-solid swing and ability to perform under pressure were the big reasons for his dramatic triumph in the Players Championship at Sawgrass on Sunday.
Choi claimed his eighth victory in the States - more than any other Asian player and one worth over £1million - after a thrilling finish which culminated in a play-off.
Rival David Toms, without a win for more than six years, was one in front with three to go, but bogeyed the long 16th after hitting his second into the lake.
Choi then made a 10-footer for a two at the 130-yard 17th, only for Toms to hole from 17 feet for birdie on the last.
They tied on 13 under and returned to the 17th, where 44-year-old Toms three-putted from 18 feet and allowed 40-year-old Choi to become the fourth successive non-American to triumph after Sergio Garcia, Henrik Stenson and Tim Clark.
Comfortable
Choi said: "The back nine is really difficult and puts a lot of pressure on you, but for some reason today I felt very comfortable out there.
"I've worked with my swing coach Steve Bann for over six years now and we've gone through a lot of work together.
"The swing that I have right now doesn't really break down under pressure situations."
Toms added: "I was very happy with the way I held up the last 31 holes I played today.
Tough
"With the lead or being around the lead the whole time, it's tough when you haven't been there in a while and when you haven't played this golf course well.
"Obviously, three-putting in the play-off wasn't what I'd like to do, but I thought I made the first one.
"I was probably thinking ahead and thinking about the next hole, and I just got up there and missed it."
