Ernie Els, one of South Africa’s most accomplished professional golfers, has built a legendary career spanning over three decades. With an estimated net worth of $85 million, Els has not only dominated the golf course but also established successful business ventures in golf course design, winemaking, and philanthropy. Known as “The Big Easy” for his fluid golf swing and laid-back demeanor, Els has earned millions in tournament prize money, endorsements, and entrepreneurial pursuits.
Early Life and Introduction to Golf
Theodore Ernest “Ernie” Els was born on October 17, 1969, in Johannesburg, South Africa. Raised in Germiston, a small town outside of Johannesburg, Els grew up in a sports-driven family. His father, Neels Els, introduced him to golf at a young age, while he also excelled in tennis, rugby, and cricket.
By the time he was 14 years old, Els had decided to focus solely on golf, a decision that paid off quickly. In 1984, he won the Junior World Golf Championship, competing against young talent, including a young Phil Mickelson. At 17 years old, Els made history by becoming the youngest winner of the South African Amateur Championship.
Professional Career and Major Wins
Early Professional Success
Ernie Els turned professional in 1989, making an immediate impact on the Southern Africa Tour by winning his first professional tournament in 1991. He soon expanded his reach internationally, securing his first major overseas win at the 1993 Dunlop Phoenix Tournament in Japan.
Breakthrough in Major Championships
Els gained worldwide recognition in 1994 when he won his first major championship at the U.S. Open. His triumph at Oakmont Country Club catapulted him into golf’s elite ranks. Just three years later, in 1997, he won his second U.S. Open title, becoming the first international player since 1906 to achieve this feat twice.
Multiple PGA and European Tour Titles
Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Els remained a dominant force on both the PGA Tour and European Tour. Some of his most notable victories include:
- Dubai Desert Classic (1994, 2002, 2005)
- Byron Nelson Classic (1995)
- World Match Play Championship (record seven-time winner)
- The Open Championship (2002, 2012)
His 2012 Open Championship victory was particularly significant, as he staged a dramatic comeback to win after Adam Scott’s late collapse.
Career Earnings and Endorsements
During his professional career, Ernie Els earned nearly $50 million in tournament prize money, ranking him among the highest-earning golfers in history. His financial success, however, extends beyond tournament winnings. Through lucrative endorsement deals with brands like Callaway, Boeing, and SAP, Els has earned tens of millions more.
Challenges and Comebacks
Despite his success, Els has faced periods of struggle. In 2007, he set a three-year plan to surpass Tiger Woods as the World No. 1 golfer, but injuries and inconsistent performances prevented him from achieving this goal. However, he bounced back in 2008, winning the Honda Classic, marking his 16th PGA Tour title.
His 2011 season saw him fall out of the Top 50 in the Official World Golf Ranking for the first time in 18 years, but he silenced critics in 2012 with his stunning Open Championship victory at Royal Lytham & St Annes.
Even in the twilight of his career, Els continued to compete at a high level. In 2020, he joined the PGA Tour Champions, quickly making an impression by winning the Hoag Classic and SAS Championship.
Business Ventures and Entrepreneurship
Golf Course Design
Ernie Els has translated his passion for golf into a successful golf course design business. Under Ernie Els Design, he has developed world-class golf courses in:
- China
- South Africa
- Malaysia
- Mauritius
His signature designs emphasize playability, sustainability, and luxury resort integration, making them some of the most sought-after courses globally.
Winemaking and Els Wines
Beyond golf, Els has ventured into winemaking, launching Els Wines in Stellenbosch, South Africa. His winery produces high-quality red and white wines, with Els Signature Blend becoming an award-winning collection among wine connoisseurs.
Philanthropy and Autism Awareness
One of Ernie Els’ most impactful contributions has been in philanthropy, particularly in raising awareness for autism. After his son, Ben Els, was diagnosed with autism, he founded Els for Autism in 2009. The foundation has since raised millions of dollars to support research, therapy programs, and education for children with autism.
Additionally, he established the Ernie Els and Fancourt Foundation in 1999, aimed at supporting underprivileged South African youth through golf. Many young golfers from his program have gone on to play professionally.
Personal Life and Legacy
Ernie Els married Liezi Els in 1998, and together they have two children, Samantha and Ben. The family resides in multiple locations, including Jupiter, Florida, and South Africa.
Despite stepping back from full-time competitive golf, Els remains actively involved in mentoring young golfers, course design, and business ventures. His legacy as one of South Africa’s greatest sports icons is firmly cemented in golf history.
