Ernie Els
| Date of birth : |
Johannesburg, South Africa |
| Place of birth : |
October 17, 1969
|
| Stats : |
210lbs |
| Turned pro : |
1989 |
University
|
University of Houston (1985, Recreation) |
Biography
Ernie Els is one of the most successful golfers in the history of the
game, having won more than 60 tournaments since turning professional in
1989, including two US Opens and an Open Championship, and a record
seven World Matchplay titles. The international scope of Ernie's
victories is second to none. He is one of golf’s truly global players.
Ernie was born in South Africa on 17th October 1969. As a youngster,
he was outstanding in soccer, cricket, rugby and tennis. At the age of
13 he won a significant regional tennis event, the Eastern Transvaal
Junior Championships. A year later aged 14 and playing off a scratch
handicap, Ernie won the world junior golf championship in San Diego,
California. Ernie was awarded his Junior Springbok colours in 1984, the
State President Sports Award in 1987, and in 1988 his full Springbok
colours.
His classic, powerful golf swing is universally admired, and aspired
to, from both sides of the ropes. And while his easy-going nature masks
a fierce competitive drive, it is all of these qualities, along with an
engaging on-course persona, that have helped make Ernie one of the most
popular golfers in the game today.