Elvira Leads in Dubai, But Puig Lurks for International Team

The third round of the Dubai Invitational has set up a massive Sunday showdown, with Spaniard Nacho Elvira leading the pack at 13-under par. But for International Team scouts, the real story is lurking just behind him: young phenom David Puig.

Puig's Rollercoaster "Audition" Puig is currently tied for third, just three shots off the lead, but his path there has been anything but ordinary.

• Round 1: He opened with a stellar 67 (-4), sitting just one back of Rory McIlroy.
• Round 2: In what he described as "one of the weirdest rounds of my life," Puig made two triple bogeys on the front nine yet incredibly rallied to shoot a 72 (+1). His ability to storm back with four birdies coming home saved his tournament and demonstrated the kind of bounce-back ability crucial for match play.

Chasing Giants Puig isn't just playing against the course; he's battling a leaderboard that features Rory McIlroy and defending champion Tommy Fleetwood. This is the perfect stress test for a potential Captain's Pick.

• Driving Distance: Puig has been overpowering the Dubai Creek layout, a skill that would play well at Medinah.
• Mental Toughness: Recovering from multiple triple bogeys to stay in contention is exactly the kind of "short memory" Captain Mike Weir looks for in a rookie.

Weir's Watchful Eye While Elvira chases the trophy, Puig is chasing a shield. A win—or even a podium finish—against a field of this caliber would legitimate his case for the International Team. He has proven he can score low (67) and scramble hard (72 with two triples). Sunday will determine if he can close.