Ernie Els, affectionately nicknamed “The Big Easy” for his fluid swing and relaxed demeanor, is a South African professional golfer whose impact on the sport extends far beyond his impressive list of victories. Born Theodore Ernest Els on October 17, 1969, this towering figure (standing at 6’3″) has captivated audiences for decades with his graceful style and formidable talent. A former World No. 1, Els has amassed over 70 professional wins worldwide, including four Major Championships, solidifying his place as one of the greats of the modern era. However, his legacy is equally defined by his profound philanthropic endeavors, particularly his tireless work in autism advocacy.
Early Life and Budding Talent
Growing up in Johannesburg, South Africa, Els excelled in various sports, including cricket, rugby, and tennis. He even won a significant junior tennis championship at the age of 13. However, it was golf that ultimately captured his focus. He turned professional in 1989 at the age of 20, quickly showcasing the immense talent that would soon make him a global star.
His early career saw him dominate the Sunshine Tour in South Africa, winning the Order of Merit twice. He also demonstrated his potential on the international stage, securing his first victory outside of South Africa at the Dunlop Phoenix in Japan in 1993. These early successes were a prelude to the major championship breakthroughs that would define his prime years.
Major Championship Glory and Career Highlights
Ernie Els’ career is punctuated by four Major Championship victories, a testament to his ability to perform under the greatest pressure:
1994 U.S. Open: Els captured his first major title at Oakmont Country Club in a grueling 92-hole battle, eventually defeating Colin Montgomerie in a sudden-death playoff. This victory announced his arrival as a global force in golf.
1997 U.S. Open: He secured his second U.S. Open title at Congressional Country Club, once again overcoming Montgomerie. This win established him as a two-time major champion and briefly propelled him to the World No. 1 ranking.
2002 Open Championship: In challenging conditions at Muirfield, Els triumphed in a four-man playoff to lift the Claret Jug for the first time, silencing critics who questioned his mental fortitude in major championships.
2012 Open Championship: Ten years after his first Open victory, Els remarkably won his second Claret Jug at Royal Lytham & St Annes. He capitalized on a late collapse by Adam Scott to secure a memorable victory in the twilight of his major-winning career.
Beyond his major wins, Els enjoyed a remarkably consistent and successful career. He topped the European Tour Order of Merit in 2003 and 2004 and holds the record for most wins at the World Match Play Championship with seven titles. He also has 19 PGA Tour victories and 28 wins on the European Tour, placing him among the leading money winners on both circuits. His effortless swing earned him the enduring nickname “The Big Easy,” and he was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2011.
A Champion Off the Course: Philanthropy and Autism Advocacy
Beyond his remarkable golf career, Ernie Els has dedicated himself to significant philanthropic work. In 1999, he established the Ernie Els Foundation in South Africa, which provides educational assistance and golfing opportunities to underprivileged youth. This foundation has helped nurture talented young golfers, including major champion Louis Oosthuizen.
However, his most profound philanthropic impact comes through the Els for Autism Foundation, which he co-founded in 2009 with his wife Liezl after their son Ben was diagnosed with autism. This foundation has a global mission to transform the lives of people with autism and their families. The centerpiece of their efforts is The Els Center of Excellence in Jupiter, Florida, a world-class campus providing comprehensive programs and services for individuals with autism across the lifespan.
The foundation also supports research, global outreach initiatives, and recreational programs like the Ernie Els #GameON Autism Golf program. Ernie and Liezl’s tireless advocacy has raised significant awareness and funding for autism, making a tangible difference in countless lives worldwide.
Current Status and Enduring Influence
In 2025, Ernie Els continues to be an active presence in the world of golf, primarily competing on the PGA Tour Champions. He has enjoyed success on the senior tour, adding to his impressive list of professional victories. His graceful swing and competitive spirit remain evident, and he continues to be a popular figure among fans.
Beyond his playing career, Els’ influence extends through his golf course design business, Ernie Els Design, which has created award-winning courses across the globe. His Ernie Els Wines also showcases his entrepreneurial spirit and passion for quality.
Ultimately, Ernie Els’ legacy is that of a true champion, both on and off the golf course. His remarkable achievements in the sport are matched by his profound commitment to philanthropy, particularly his groundbreaking work in autism advocacy. “The Big Easy” has not only left an indelible mark on the game of golf but has also used his platform to make a significant positive impact on the establishing his reputation as a genuine icon in the lives of others.
FAQs
What are some of Ernie Els’ most significant career achievements?
Els’ career is marked by numerous accolades. He holds the record for the most consecutive weeks inside the Top-10 of the Official World Golf Ranking, with 758 weeks between 1994 and 2009. Additionally, he has the most consecutive cuts made on the European Tour—82 from 2000 to 2007—and the most birdies in a single round on the European Tour, with 12 at the 1994 Dubai Desert Classic. His career-low round is a 12-under-par 60 at the 2004 Heineken Classic. Els has also represented South Africa in professional team golf on 22 occasions, including nine Dunhill Cups, five World Cups, and eight Presidents Cups.
How has Ernie Els contributed to the sport beyond his playing career?
Beyond his playing career, Els has made significant contributions to golf through his philanthropic efforts and business ventures. In 1999, he established the Ernie Els & Fancourt Foundation in South Africa to provide educational assistance and golfing opportunities to underprivileged youth. The foundation has produced notable golfers such as Louis Oosthuizen, Branden Grace, and Christiaan Bezuidenhout. Els also co-founded ASM Scholarships in 2018, a college recruiting service that helps athletes secure athletic scholarships to American universities.
What is the Els for Autism Foundation, and how did it come about?
The Els for Autism Foundation was established in 2009 by Els and his wife, Liezl, following their son Ben’s autism diagnosis. The foundation aims to help individuals on the autism spectrum lead positive, productive, and rewarding lives. A key initiative is The Els Center of Excellence in Jupiter, Florida, a 26-acre campus that serves as a global resource for autism services. The foundation has raised significant funds through events like the Els for Autism Pro-Am, which has supported programs benefiting individuals with autism.
What are some of Ernie Els’ business ventures outside of golf?
Els has diversified his interests through various business ventures. He founded Ernie Els Wines in 1999, producing award-winning wines from Stellenbosch, South Africa. In 2019, he launched Champion Pet Products, offering pet treats and toys, and Ernie Els Biltong, a line of traditional South African dried meat snacks. Additionally, Els operates a golf course design business, Ernie Els Design, with courses in China, South Africa, Malaysia, and Mauritius.
What is Ernie Els’ estimated net worth, and how does he generate income?
As of 2025, Ernie Els’ net worth is estimated at $85 million. His income sources include earnings from golf course design, winemaking, and endorsements with companies like Boeing, Callaway Golf, RBC, and SAP, totaling approximately $16 million. Els also generates income through his pet products and biltong businesses. His philanthropic endeavors, particularly through the Els for Autism Foundation, have further solidified his legacy both on and off the course.
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