Ernie Els feels at home as he prepares for his final season at Sunningdale-Golf News
Four-time main champion Ernie Els enjoys a rare luxury to attend the big championship this week at Sunningdale Golf Club’s own front door in just minutes.
South Africa has called home in the region for nearly three decades and is embracing the comfort of classes, communities, and even sleeping in his own bed.
“I’m looking forward to that all year round,” Elles said. “When I saw it as planned, even last year, I was like, man, that’s the one we wanted to go to. It felt like home. I’ve been here for 28 years, played golf a lot, and had a lot of friends here.”
Els has been excellent in the past two seasons over the past two seasons, hoping to regain momentum this week after he described as a “quiet” month of the course.
He hopes Sunningdale’s comfort and course knowledge will provide the advantages he needs.
“It’s going to be a great week trying to get some form,” he said. “It’s the last major of the year, so you’d better do your best.”
Sunningdale Conditions
Longtime Sunningdale fan Els praised the status of the historic wasteland layout.
After taking the course last Friday, he noticed significant changes in conditions due to recent rainfall, but stressed that the track was “absolutely pure”.
“The fairway is perfect. The greens are as good as I’ve seen. If we have good weather, you’ll see some good scores.”
When asked what it takes to perform well in Sunningdale, Els pointed out the importance of precision.
“It’s all about hitting the ball. You’re offline and there’s a lot of trouble – heathland, bunkers, trees. But if you can keep it in the game and give yourself a chance, you’re in a great position.”
Helping him browse the nuances of the Greens this week is a familiar face – John, a local caddie, has a deep understanding of the course.
“He’s going to read Green for me. They can be tricky and I’ve learned it,” Ells said with a smile.
But, besides the competitive advantage and original conditions, ELS also thanks for the rare privilege of staying at home in the mid-Champion Week.
“You can’t say how great it is,” he said. “I used to love playing Wentworth and being able to stay home, and now I can do it again in Sunningdale. It’s very comfortable.”
With the stage scenes and surroundings just right, ELS will turn local knowledge into a ranking success in chasing a major title.
