A string of four consecutive bogeys to finish his Championship, after holding a commanding lead for most of the final day, put Scott back to six under par.
Els had earlier reached seven under par with a brilliant birdie at the last, signing off with an iconic putt and celebration in what proved to be a winning moment.
Scott was understandably devastated at the loss, but soon redeemed himself less than a year later in winning The Masters.
To hear Scott and Els' reflections on the dramatic finish at The 141st Open, listen to The Story of 2012 here today.