South African · Johannesburg, South Africa · Born 17 October 1969The Big Easy — four majors across two decades and one of the most elegant swings in golf history.
Nicknamed "The Big Easy" for his fluid, effortless swing, Ernie Els won four major championships across two decades — the US Open in 1994 and 1997, and The Open Championship in 2002 and 2012 — a span that showcased remarkable longevity at the highest level. The South African spent 91 weeks as world number one in the late 1990s and early 2000s, and his rivalry with Colin Montgomerie and later Tiger Woods produced some of the era's most memorable major championship finishes, including a three-way playoff win at the 1994 US Open. Els also built a successful course design business and has remained a Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup fixture as both player and captain.
Four major championships and smooth swing tempo
His 2012 Open Championship victory at 42 made him the oldest Open champion since 1967.
Did You Know?How They Played
Smooth tempo, powerful driver, excellent iron play
Lasting Impact
One of the greatest international golfers, known as 'The Big Easy'
Career Honours
- US Open 1994 1997
- The Open 2002 2012
- World No.1 91 weeks
South African Athletes